Prospective Biology Teachers Views on STEM Applications


Mirici S., Göktaş A.

GlobETS: 2rd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON EDUCATION, TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE, Girne, Cyprus (Kktc), 11 - 14 April 2019, pp.46

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Summary Text
  • City: Girne
  • Country: Cyprus (Kktc)
  • Page Numbers: pp.46
  • Gazi University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

STEM (Science, technology, engineering, mathematics) is a synthesis formed by the use of different disciplines. This synthesis, which improves the permanence of knowledge and provides learning by doing-living, maintains its popularity in the field of education as a consistent learning approach based on real-world applications. This study was conducted to evaluate prospective teachers' views on STEM applications. In the study, GMO analysis by gel electrophoresis, self-microscope and nano-drug activities were performed. The study group is comprised of the 4th year students of the Biology Education Department of the Faculty of Education of a state university. The study was consisted of 18 students (9 experimental and 9 control groups). Semi-structured interview questions were used as data collection tools. The voice recordings were analyzed by transcript. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that prospective teachers' awareness about STEM education increased and that they would experience learning process without being bored and that these practices would increase motivation. In addition, some of the prospective teachers stated that they could apply any STEM application with students and some stated that they were not sufficient to design STEM applications. It was understood that prospective teachers who made STEM practices increased their competence against STEM applications, but that the prospective teachers had to practice more in the process. Keywords: STEM applications, biology teacher candidates