Impact of inquiry science and technology education in the development of citizenship skills: The case of the Pequeños Científicos program in Colombia

Abstract

Pequeños Científicos (Little Scientists) program in Colombia seeks to transform teaching of science and technology using inquiry activities that promote the improvement of scientific and technological skills as well as the development of social abilities to coexist with others and participate in democratic societies. This work present a survey made during the second semester of 2012 with in service teachers that have been working in Pequeños Científicos program. Results show that teachers recognize a positive impact of implementation of the project in the environment of the classroom. Aspects as collaborative work and role recognition inside the group were highlighted as important as well as respect for other ideas or opinions. Other situations as recognition of abuse or nonaggressive communication were not influenced by the program. Teachers also report that competences as learning from error improved significantly with Pequeños Científicos. This work suggests that STEM education can promote not only an improvement in scientific and technological competences but also peaceful environments in the school, and that the Pequeños Científicos program is an opportunity to transform students-teacher and students-students relationships in the classroom.