Attendance of extracurricular activities in the field of natural sciences and the attractiveness of the content offered for extracurricular activities in biology in elementary schools

Abstract

Background and purpose: For many years, students’ interest in the field of natural sciences has declined, which consequently results in decreasing numbers of professional staff in the mentioned field. The aim of this study was to examine the attendance of extracurricular activities in the field of natural sciences by elementary school students (age 13 and 14) in Zagreb and whether the teachers' expectations are in line with the students' preferences for the content offered as part of extracurricular activities in biology. Material and methods: Using an anonymous online survey (Google Forms), data were collected on participation in extracurricular activities in the field of natural sciences and the attractiveness of the content of extracurricular activities. The respondents were 90 students in the 7th grade and 46 teachers of biology in Zagreb, 2020. Results: Participation in extracurricular activities in the field of natural sciences among the surveyed students was very low. Students were attracted to content that includes simple practical work in the field of biology, including microscopy, but the perception of their interest by teachers is not in accordance with the real interests of the students. Conclusion: The results of this research show that the share of the science field in extracurricular activities is low, and that the surveyed teachers are not aware of the students' wishes regarding the content offered in extracurricular activities. The conducted research can be a good basis for organizing and planning extracurricular activities in elementary school.