INCREASING THE STUDENTS’ INTEREST IN SCIENCE BY IMPLEMENTING A SCIENCE ACTION DEDICATED TO PLASTICS BIODEGRADABILITY

Abstract

Science actions represent specific initiatives and demarches that involve investigation, experimentation, and even research, for raising the interest of the young generation in science, through particular approaches of STEM education. Important topics are promoted to students in various approaches, addressing nowadays problems, answering scientific questions, or trying to make them aware of sensible issues. In this respect, the topic of plastics biodegradability embraced the clothes of a Science action, a format based on the Care-Know-Do model, proposed in the frame of the CONNECT project. Having the view to evaluating the students’ interest in science after the implementation of the project-designed science actions, the partnership proposed a 5-point Likert scale instrument. In Romania, 373 students who participated in the Biodegradable Plastics action expressed their feedback, underlining - in an important proportion - their strong confidence in science, being ready to participate in collaborative science projects or benefit from their family support who consider that understanding and knowing science is useful for the entire life. Moreover, the students offered positive feedback related to teachers’ ability to emphasize the importance of science for their life and future, but also in society, in general. Keywords: STEM education, science action, plastics biodegradability, students’ feedback, CONNECT project