Seven place-conscious methods to stimulate situational interest in science teaching in urban environments. Issue 2 (17th February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bølling, Mads; Hartmeyer, Rikke; Bentsen, Peter
• Is Part Of: Education 3-13. Volume 47:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 162
• Page End: 175
• Publication Date: 2019-02-17
• Subjects: Education outside the classroom -- interest -- place-conscious education -- qualitative case study -- science education; Education -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Education, Primary -- Periodicals; Education, Elementary -- Periodicals; 372.942
• DOI: 10.1080/03004279.2017.1420096
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-4279

Abstract

ABSTRACT: In this study, we explored how teachers can take advantage of a 'place' in urban environments outside the school and thereby stimulate pupils' situational interest in science teaching. Drawing on the Sophos research method, we conducted a single case study including film-elicited interviews. The data consisted of transcribed interviews with 4 experienced teachers and 11 pupils. The interviews were elicited by films showing group work in science teaching in urban environments: a parking lot, a green public park and a zoo. We conducted individual interviews with science teachers, while the interviews with pupils were carried out in small groups. To analyse our data, we applied a hermeneutic content analysis. We identified seven place-conscious teaching methods that have the potential to stimulate pupils' situational interest. These methods included: (1) handling objects; (2) integrating new places; (3) alignment between the environment and task; (4) integrating minimal cultivated places; (5) providing a science perspective on everyday places; (6) disseminating historical or cultural knowledge of places; and (7) surprises. Starting from a discussion drawing on studies that explored triggers of pupils' situational interest, we argue that science teachers can draw on these seven place-conscious methods to stimulate interest in science teaching in urban environments.