A SCIENCE EDUCATION WORKSHOP ASSOCIATED WITH A SCIENCE CENTER EXHIBITION: LANGUAGE OF RINGS ON TREE TRUNKS

Abstract

Science centers are the environments established as a result of big investments and great efforts, and aim to increase the scientific literacy level of the society. Alongside their captivating exhibits, these centers include a variety of workshops that can provide more specialized outcomes, particularly on learning. Especially science education workshops are the most ideal places to contribute to science education. In this research carried out within the scope of BILMER Research Project (Project No: 114K646, supported by TUBITAK 1001 Program), a science education workshop titled “Language of Rings on Tree Trunks” was developed in the field of biology, based on inquiry and including scientific research and scientific process skills. In this context, the developed workshop was applied to 66 teachers from five different branches and 4 science center trainers. The data of the research were collected through a preliminary evaluation form, a workshop evaluation form, field notes, video and audio recordings of the event. In the study, which includes the case study design of the qualitative research approach, the data obtained were subjected to content analysis. Based on the evaluation and reflections, a science education workshop teaching directory that can be used in schools within the scope of science center or science center-school cooperation has been developed.