The Impact of Experiences on Preservice Science Teachers' Self-Efficacy in Teaching Science Concepts in the Context of Socioscientific Issues


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Bostanci B., Yilmaz Tüzün Ö.

European Conference on Educational Research (ECER), Yerevan, Armenia, 1 - 09 September 2022

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Summary Text
  • City: Yerevan
  • Country: Armenia
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study aims to explore the impact of experiences on preservice science teachers' self-efficacy in teaching science concepts in the context of socioscientific issues (SSI). The research employed a mixed-method design, where qualitative data were collected to supplement quantitative findings. The SSI-related self-efficacy beliefs scale and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from 38 senior preservice science teachers pursuing their education in a public university in Turkey. The findings revealed that mastery experiences, such as experiences in mentoring schools and university courses, were the most influential source of self-efficacy in SSI-based teaching practices. The quantitative analysis showed that preservice science teachers had the highest self-efficacy in fostering argumentation and decision-making in SSI but scored the lowest on general instructional strategies of SSI teaching. The qualitative data highlighted the importance of experiences for effective SSI-based instruction and the need for more opportunities to develop pedagogical skills in the dynamic nature of the argumentation environment. Overall, this study suggests that preservice science teachers' self-efficacy in teaching science concepts in the context of SSI can be enhanced through diverse and meaningful experiences during their teacher education programs.