Examination of Experienced Chemistry Teachers' Views on TÜBİTAK 4006 Science Fairs Programs

Abstract

TUBITAK 4006 Science Fairs are supported by TÜBĠTAK to ensure students to be interested in many scientific fields, to increase their participation in scientific studies, and to make students gain research and inquiry skills. In this study, it was aimed to reveal the perspectives of experienced chemistry teachers who participated in TUBITAK 4006 Science Fair Programs as managers or supervisors and to get their views for the development of the program, if any. In the research, a holistic single case study, one of the qualitative research designs, was used. The participants consisted of 20 chemistry teachers selected by the typical case sampling method. The data collected through a semi-structured interview form consisting of six open-ended questions and were analyzed by content analysis. In the study, it was concluded that chemistry teachers found science fairs positive in terms of students learning ways to access information. However, it was determined that there was a general belief among teachers that more active participation of the student in the project application and preparation process would be necessary for this positive effect. However, it was concluded that some participants also had negative perceptions, such as insufficient project budget and inefficiently usage.

Keywords

• tubitak 006 science fair program
• experienced chemistry teacher
• project-based learning