A Day at the Science Center Examining the Experience of the Pre-Service Elementary Teachers on the Practices at the Science Center

Abstract

This research was carried out to reveal the experiences of pre-service elementary teachers during their visit to the science center and their observations and opinions about this experience. For this purpose, a case study, which is one of the qualitative research designs, was adopted. Thirty-two pre-service elementary teachers participated in the research. Interviews, observations and diaries were used to obtain the data, and the data were subjected to content analysis. As a result of the analysis, four themes were reached: image, interest, contribution, and improvement. The results show that pre-service teachers associate the science center image they create with technology, laboratory and scientists. It was determined that pre-service teachers showed more interest in some disciplines of science, scientists, and technology-related fields in the science center. In addition, it was concluded that the science center will contribute to the innovative and productive vision, economy, science literacy of the society in the city where it is located, science teaching, and the professional development of teachers. Finally, the pre-service teachers made suggestions to increase the contribution of science centers to the region and society. It is thought that the results will be guiding in terms of providing science teaching experience and a qualified science teaching vision to pre-service elementary teachers in informal environments.