An Analysis of Science Teachers’ Views on Argumentation-Based Science Learning and the Activities they have Prepared

Abstract

This study is an attempt to examine science teachers’ views on Argumentation-Based Science Learning (ABSL) and the activities they have prepared. The study employed a qualitative case study method. The working group consisted of 5 science teachers who work in secondary schools affiliated with the Ministry of National Education in Turkey and who have master’s degree. This study deployed the “Semi-structured Preliminary Interview Form”, “The Evaluation Rubric related to the Activities Based on Argumentation-Based Science Learning “ and “Semi-structured Final Interview Form”. Content analysis and descriptive analysis were used during data analysis. The results revealed that the teachers’ perceptions towards ABSL before the implementation were mostly grounded on giving opinions and argumentation. Four teachers did not use ABSL in lessons before and they did not prepare any activities. On analyzing the activities prepared by the teachers through use of ABSL, all the teachers were identified to consider grade level, unit, subject area, learning outcome and associating them with daily life while preparing the activities. The teachers were also determined to use concept cartoons, competing theories with stories, and experiment design techniques in the activity papers. Besides, the Toulmin argumentation model steps were taken into consideration in the activity papers. Concerning the analysis of last interview data, teachers’ perceptions towards ABSL were found to be opinions, claims, opposing ideas and arguments. The teachers also indicated that they avoided creating misconceptions and that they took into account the student and grade levels in the ABSL activities. In addition, the teachers noted that preparing the activity is time-consuming and unsuitable for every subject. This study is paramount in terms of giving information to teachers and pre-service teachers related to the teachers’ views on ABSL and how they have prepared ABSL activities.