The Effect of Scientific Studies on Students’ Scientific Literacy and Attitude

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of scientific studies on students’ scientific literacy and attitude towards science course. For the study, a middle school science study group was established by randomly selecting 30 students from the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Participating students were given information about the programme. Students worked regularly for 12 weeks on topics of scientific research and held discussions on them. Students did research on information they collected during interviews. As a result, many students involved in the science group studies were able to increase their skills through discussion and exchange of views. Before the application, the students in the program were given a test which incorporated scientific literacy and attitude towards science course. Their attitudes about science were assessed and scored using a questionnaire. During the program of study, students were provided with discussion topics by the researcher. An additional goal was to encourage student participation in scientific processes. Twelve weeks after the application, the students were given the same questionnaire and test again. The data obtained were analysed using an SPSS program. Statistical results indicated that the students’ scientific literacy had increased significantly, and that their attitudes towards science were more positive. In terms of both gender and class level of the students, a significant difference emerged after the application, when compared to before the application.

Keywords:

Attitude; science education; scientific literacy; scientific study; elementary school,

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