A Case Study of Individual Contextual Characteristics Impact on Korean Elementary School Students’ Interest in Science Using Phase of Interest Development and the Process-Person-Context-Time Models

Abstract

This study examines the individual contextual characteristics of elementary school students in Korea during the phase of interest development, using Phase of Interest Development (PIT) and Process-Person-Context-Time (PPCT) models. Four students from each level of interest development were selected to participate, and they wrote photo-journals for 12 weeks while meeting with the researcher every two weeks for semi-structured interviews. The results show that students with higher levels of interest in science tend to participate more in science activities, become more independent, and re-engage in activities. The findings suggest that factors within the microsystem, such as schoolteachers or parents, may have an influence on students’ interest in science, regardless of their level of interest. This study contributes to the theoretical foundation of interest in science research and may be useful for developing strategies to increase students’ interest in science.