The impact of difference college science courses on students' attitude towards science
Poster Number
6
Introduction/Abstract
It is in the interest of the society, and the responsibility of educators, to improve students’ attitude towards science. Many instructors assume that the students will acquire positive attitude towards science as they learn more about it. Research however shows that instructors often struggle to change students’ attitude and beliefs.
Purpose
Does a science and society seminar have a more positive impact on students’ attitude towards science than introductory science courses?
Method
We administered a science attitude inventory survey to students enrolled in an introductory astronomy course, a PACS 1 seminar focusing on the relation between science and society, and a standard PACS 1 seminar as control.
Results
We find that the science and society seminar had a more positive influence on students' attitude towards science than an introductory astronomy course. The students enrolled in the astronomy course actually suffered a significantly loss in their belief that the general public can understand science.
Significance
Science instructor might want to reevaluate their general education curriculum. Teaching more science content actually hurts non-science students' opinion of science. Science teaching should be context-based.
Location
DeRosa University Center, Stockton campus, University of the Pacific
Format
Poster Presentation
The impact of difference college science courses on students' attitude towards science
DeRosa University Center, Stockton campus, University of the Pacific
It is in the interest of the society, and the responsibility of educators, to improve students’ attitude towards science. Many instructors assume that the students will acquire positive attitude towards science as they learn more about it. Research however shows that instructors often struggle to change students’ attitude and beliefs.
