Developing Chemical Literacy in Non-Formal Learning Environments: A Systematic Literature Review.

Abstract

The study examines the development of chemical literacy in non-formal learning environments based on a systematic literature review conducted between 2010 and 2023. Non-formal education serves as a valuable complement to the formal school system, enabling the exploration of topics often overlooked in formal curricula due to rigid regulations or teachers' lack of expertise. The review included 236 primary articles, of which 19 met strict inclusion criteria. The results indicate that the most employed approaches in non-formal education are inquiry-based learning, laboratory work with an emphasis on independent experimental activities, and science camps. Non-formal education significantly contributes to the development of chemical literacy, fosters interest in science, and improves attitudes toward chemistry. The authors highlight the need for further research in this field and greater integration of non-formal approaches into formal education to enhance the scientific literacy of young learners.