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In this study, we examined STEAM education's reflections and implicit functions on children according to the views of early childhood and primary school teachers who applied STEAM education. We conducted the study within the scope of phenomenology design, one of the qualitative research designs. The participants were ten teachers who had previously received STEAM education and applied STEAM education in their classroom and were determined by the snowball sampling method. We collected the data with semi-structured interviews and analyzed them with content analysis. We explained our findings with three themes: 1) opportunities for collaborative learning with peers, 2) values, and 3) opportunities for skill development. According to the results, STEAM education encouraged children to make friends, work together, have fun, develop positive commitment, and take responsibility. STEAM education enabled children to cooperate, share, take responsibility, and develop friendships among children. In addition, STEAM education contributed to many skills of children, such as empathy, problem-solving, scientific process, analytical thinking, aggressiveness, self-control, and critical thinking. In this respect, the study provides evidence for the illusions of STEAM education for children. more...

The purpose of this study is to look into primary school teacher candidates' experiences with virtual museums during the pandemic. For this purpose, the study was conducted with a phenomenology design, which is one of the qualitative research designs. The study's participants are 15 teacher candidates enrolled in the faculty of education for the 2020-2021 academic year. In the study, data were collected after 10 virtual museums were experienced by the participants, who made assessments from an educational perspective. The research data were collected through a structured interview form, the Virtual Museum Evaluation Form (VMEF). The data obtained were analyzed with content analysis. According to the findings of the study, it was determined that using virtual museums in educational environments will benefit students and teachers, but also have some disadvantages. At this point, it can be said that virtual museums can be used in education due to such reasons as ensuring the active participation of students in the lesson, supporting permanent learning, making the lesson fun, etc. while being aware of the disadvantages. more...

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of educational activities integrated with children's books on Turkish primary school student's perceptions of Syrian students. The research participants consisted of 51 Turkish primary school students educated in a primary school in Istanbul. The data in the study were obtained by scale prepared by the researchers. In the analysis of data obtained in the research, statistical techniques were used. According to the research findings, children's books were influential on students' immigrant perceptions. Accordingly, it was determined that there is a significant difference in favor of the post-test between the pre and post-test mean scores of the students in the experimental group. The study's findings indicate that educational activities enriched with children's books effectively affect primary school students' perceptions of immigrant children. more...

The aim of this study is revealing the strategies used by 5th-grade students in comparing fractions. In line with this purpose the study is based on qualitative research. Participants of the study conducted with convenient sampling method are seventy 5th-grade students. The students have been asked six questions which necessitate comparison of fraction pairs, considering the sample questions included in mathematics textbook within the limitations of 5th-grade gains on fractions. In addition, for the purpose of revealing the strategies of students in comparing fractions in more detail, face-to-face interviews are held with ten students. The students interviewed have been selected from among those who use different strategies, apply the rules and make faulty reasoning. In order to ensure the validity and reliability of the research, research data are checked by another researcher and similar themes and categories to the ones found by the researcher are reached. Collected data are analyzed by using content analysis and the strategies that the students use in comparing fractions are tried to be determined. As a result of the analyses, it is seen that students mostly prefer "Applying the Rules" where they use procedural information. It is determined that the number of students who prefer "Strategy Development and Discovery" which require conceptual comprehension is less than others. The findings show that consideration of conceptual and procedural comprehension in comparing fractions and not imposing rules on students and ensuring the students reach the rule is important. [This work was presented as an oral presentation at the international primary school teaching symposium (USOS-2018, Ankara).] more...

This study aims to examine in-depth the practices and the problems of primary school teachers in identifying and eliminating reading and writing difficulties. The current study employed phenomenology method, one of the qualitative research designs and the data of the study were collected through observation and interview techniques. Criterion sampling, one of the purposeful sampling methods was utilized in determining study group. Six primary school teachers were selected in accordance with the determined criteria to collect the interview data. To collect observation data, 3 primary schools were selected and a total of 16 hours of observation was made. According to the findings, most of the teachers did not receive education about identifying students with reading and writing difficulties, conducting studies with these students, and preparing materials, activities, and etc. suitable for them. Moreover, primary school teachers expressed that although there were some disadvantages of inclusive education, students with reading and writing difficulties should continue their education in inclusive classes. However, the necessity of providing supplementary support to these students in addition to inclusive education was frequently emphasized. When the practices of primary school teachers with students having reading and writing difficulty were examined, it was observed that they generally used letter/syllable trinkets, gamification, letter cards, individual syllable work, memorization assignments, dictation work, story reading, drama and colored syllables. On the other hand, it was determined that methods, techniques or strategies that stated to be effective in the literature were either used very little or not at all in classrooms. more...

The aim of this research is to improve environmental awareness in primary school students. For this purpose, the study was carried out within the scope of action research pattern from qualitative research patterns. The study group was determined by selecting easily accessible samples. The study group consisted of second year students attending a state primary school in Gungoren District of Istanbul in the 2018-2019 academic year. The data of the study were obtained by the students' environmental pictures, observation forms and semi-structured interview forms. The data obtained were analyzed by content analysis. According to the findings of the research, it is determined that students who received environmental education, draw pictures enthusiastically and reflecting environmental awareness, also after interviews students gain awareness toward environment, empathized with nature and draw highly esthetically appreciated pictures. more...

The study aims at examining the effects of Engineering Design Process Based STEAM activities applied with tales on the creativity and problem-solving skills of 6-6.5 year-old students. The research was carried out with a pre-test, post-test, and quasi-experimental design with the control group. The research participants consisted of students studying in a public school located in the Gaziosmanpasa District of Istanbul Province. The research was carried out with the participation of 68 students. The research data were obtained through early childhood creativity scale (ECCS) and problem-solving skills scale (PSSS). The data were analyzed by t-test and pearson correlation analysis for dependent and independent samples. According to the results obtained in the research, the Engineering Design Process Based STEAM (EDP-STEAM) activities applied with tales improved the students' creativity and problem-solving skills. The findings point to the positive effects of EDP-based STEAM education conducted with tales on students' problem solving and creativity skills. In this aspect, the study provides recommendations for future research and educators. more...

Background: In the study conducted with primary school students, the differences between STEM and STEAM activities and environmental awareness and environmental aesthetics were examined. Purpose: This study aims to examine the effects of traditional methods, STEM, and STEAM-based activities on primary school fourth-grade students' environmental awareness. Besides, the extent to which an aesthetic view predicts environmental awareness was also examined. Sample: In the study, practices were carried out on six fourth grade classes located in the state primary schools in Basaksehir district of Istanbul province, which were selected using the random cluster sampling method. Design and methods: In the study, a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group was used. At the end of the applications, the Environmental Awareness Scale and the Aesthetic View Scale developed by the researchers were applied to the students. As a result of the research, it has been observed that STEM and STEAM-based applications are effective in gaining both environmental awareness and aesthetic perspective, but the traditional method is effective in gaining environmental awareness, but not in gaining an aesthetic view. Results: According to ANOVA results to determine which application is more effective in gaining environmental awareness and aesthetic perspective, STEM applications are more effective than traditional applications, and STEAM applications are more effective than both traditional and STEM applications. In the regression analysis, it was seen that the aesthetic view explained 22% of the variation in environmental awareness. Conclusions: According to the results of the study, conveying only environmental knowledge to the students in environmental education may be insufficient to reach the intended goal. To raise environmentally sensitive students, it can be said that in environmental education, attention should be paid to gaining affective behaviours and giving students an aesthetic view and cognitive behaviour. more...

In contrast to the determinist and non-discrete structure of classical physical concepts, the probabilistic and discrete/quantised structure of quantum physics embeds certain difficulties in deeper understanding and teaching activities. In this study, in order to understand and to teach the concept of quantization more effectively, a clear analogy has been set between the classical world, that is well-known modes on a rope and the quantum world, that is the quantization in the infinite square quantum well. The established analogy is exceptionally beneficial in order to internalise and teach the hard concept of quantization in a much better way. more...

The aim of this study is to develop the language awareness scale regarding daily life. The study group consisted of 606 undergraduate students studying at a university in Istanbul. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used in the study. EFA result indicates that the scale consists of 17 items and 4 factors and 67% of the total variance is explained. Factors were named as Individual Awareness, Social Media Awareness, Awareness Regarding Daily Life and Awareness in the Mass Media. As a result of the CFA, it was determined that the scale had 17 items and the fit indices of the structure were sufficient (X[superscript 2]/sd = 2.54, RMSEA = 069, SRMR = 0.07). Item-total correlations of the scale were found to range between 79 and 89. Cronbach Alpha internal consistency coefficient of the scale was found to be as 86. Based on these findings, it can be said that the scale can be used in a valid and reliable way to measure students' language awareness about daily life. more...

The present study reports an Arduino-based STEM education material that resolves the kinematics of a moving object, specifically focusing on two dimensional motion of the object. Throughout the work, a sample application that can be prepared in a classroom where students are active and including the acquisitions of Technology, Engineering, Physics and Mathematics in a single educational environment. In the study, instantaneous time dependence of the displacements, namely "x(t)" and "y(t)" components and the resultant "R(t)" component, are experimentally measured on a vehicle by using an Arduino UNO, distance sensors and Bluetooth sensor prepared within the scope of a STEM education approach. The ratios between those measured physical quantities and theoretical estimations are found to be %13.1 for the position, %1.4 for the velocity and %7.8 for the acceleration. The error rate of the data was accepted to be reasonable considering highly economical teaching materials. more...

The aim of this study is to examine the correlation between the frequency of using metacognitive reading strategy use and non-routine problem-solving achievements in fifth grade students. The study was conducted by using the correlational survey model, one of quantitative research methods. The participants of the study consisted of 308 fifth grade students who were studying in public schools in Istanbul and Ankara in 2017-2018 school year and were selected with convenient sampling method. The data of the study were gathered using the form for the frequency of using metacognitive reading strategy by the students and the non-routine problem solving achievement Test. In the study, the form for the frequency of using metacognitive reading strategy was applied in order to determine metacognitive reading strategies of the studies and on the following day, the achievement test including non-routine problems was then applied to the students. Simple Linear Regression Analysis and Pearson Product-Moments Correlation Analysis were used in the analysis of the data obtained in the study. According to the results of the study, there was a positive correlation between the frequency of using metacognitive reading strategy and non-routine problem-solving achievements in fifth grade students and metacognitive reading strategies were a predictor of non-routine problem-solving achievement. more...

In this study, spinel NiFe2O4 nanoparticles were synthesized employing a one‐step flame spray pyrolysis technique and subjected to annealing at 500°C for 4 h. Thermal, structural, elemental, morphological, magnetic, and photoluminescence properties of the nanoparticles before and after annealing were evaluated using thermogravimetry–differential thermal analyzer, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, vibrating sample magnetometry, and fluorescence spectrometer, respectively. Results revealed a pronounced increase in particle size from an average of 80 nm to approximately 140 nm postannealing. XRD verified the retention of the cubic spinel structure with enhanced crystallinity and grain enlargement post‐thermal treatment, without the emergence of additional phases. The photoluminescence analysis showed distinct blue and green emission bands, with excitation at about 364 nm leading to blue emission at 500 nm and green emission at 550 nm both as‐prepared and postannealing. Additionally, magnetic characterization revealed an improvement in saturation magnetization from 16.31 emu/g for the as‐prepared samples to 29.68 emu/g postannealing, underscoring the annealing process's positive impact on magnetic properties. These findings emphasize the potential of tailored NiFe2O4 nanoparticles for applications in magnetic data storage, targeted drug delivery, and bioimaging, driven by modifications in their magnetic and photoluminescence characteristics through thermal treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This study focuses on how virtual museum education (VME) can support elementary school students’ social studies-specific domain skills (spatial perception, using evidence, location analysis, perceiving change and continuity, and perceiving time and chronology). For this purpose, the study was conducted using action research, one of the qualitative research traditions. The study participants consisted of fourth-grade students selected by convenience sampling. Data were collected through a pre-intervention interview form, a post-intervention interview form, an observation form, and student drawings. In this context, students participated in virtual museum training, one museum per week for seven weeks. The data obtained were analyzed using content analysis. According to the findings, VME improved students’ using evidence, location analysis and spatial perception. Additionally, VME contributed to students’ understanding of perceiving change and continuity and a deeper understanding of perceiving time and chronology. Therefore, these immersive experiences effectively help students acquire social studies skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The increasing use of electronic devices has led to an increase in electromagnetic interference (EMI) pollution, which not only adversely affects the performance of electronic devices, but also poses potential risks to human health. Traditional EMI shielding methods work by reflecting incoming electromagnetic waves, but this approach can cause secondary EMI pollution. Absorption-based shielding effectively absorbs incoming EMI and offers an environmentally friendly solution. Since bare carbon-based materials exhibit minimal magnetic losses and limited microwave absorption capabilities, in contrast to higher electrical losses, we, in this study, focused on functional coatings on carbon materials and modification of dielectric and magnetic materials and designed hierarchical Ni-Zn alloy and Fe3O4/epoxy on carbon fiber fabrics (CFF). The X-band (8–12 GHz) electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties and microwave properties of this design were investigated. The structural integrity and elemental composition of the design were verified using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Electromagnetic evaluation performed with a vector network analyzer (VNA) showed that, in particular, the CFF/Ni-Zn/Fe3O4-epoxy composite (CFF/NZ/F50E50) with a weight ratio of 50:50 exhibited the strongest reflection coefficient performance, reaching up to − 31.96 dB at 8.73 GHz. This sample also exhibited a wide reflection loss range exceeding − 20 dB from 8.41 to 9.08 GHz. The study revealed that the incorporation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles significantly improved the dielectric and magnetic loss properties of the composite coatings. The CFF/Ni-Zn/Fe3O4-epoxy composites exhibited a remarkable absorption contribution with an average of 43 dB. The SEA value of CFF/NZ/F50E50 sample reaches 45.75 dB at 8.24 GHz and constitutes 99% of SET. The results showed that CFF/Ni-Zn/Fe3O4-epoxy composites are low-reflection and absorption-dominant EMI shielding materials. CFF/Ni-Zn/Fe3O4-epoxy has the potential to find applications in technological areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The inadequacy of experimental activities (or lack of equipment) in science courses in rural parts of Turkey negatively effects students' acquisition of scientific thinking and inquiry skills. The fact that success rates are notably low in international assessments demonstrates the necessity to adopt "different" approaches apart from the existing learning and teaching methods. From this point of view, a mobile science laboratory (MSL) was constructed to deliver outreach activities in the rural outskirts of a city in Turkey. Experimental activities were carried out in this laboratory for six months with 324 middle school students who responded to survey questions. The research was designed with multimethod: A combination of quantitative and qualitative data-collection strategies was used. The first part has 25 five-point closed-ended Likert-scale items, and the second part has two open-ended questions. The results of the study show that the students in the rural areas were pleased with the activities; they enjoyed learning science in the MSL, and their interest and curiosity for science contents increased. It will be suggested that the MSLs should be used in order to support the science literacy of students in the rural areas of Turkey. more...

Artificial intelligence (AI), which refers to technologies that mimic human cognition, affects many industries. Education is one of these sectors. Artificial intelligence affects many educational environments, from lectures to homework. In this process, both academic and ethical concerns call into question the future of artificial intelligence. These inquiries are essential as they show that the human factor will continue as an integral part of education. Because AI tools, even when best designed, can only partially replace human interaction or quality teaching. However, they can make the teacher's job easier and contribute to more effective learning. Therefore, teachers' awareness of this technology has become essential. This research aims to determine primary school teachers' opinions about using AI tools in education. The research was conducted using a case study. The participants are 16 primary school teachers determined by the criterion sampling method. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview form and analyzed with content analysis. According to the findings, teachers stated that AI tools may have advantages and disadvantages in educational environments. While teachers are concerned about the adverse effects of artificial intelligence tools on students, they also recognize their cognitive and socio-emotional contributions. Teachers also stated that artificial intelligence can make teachers' jobs easier but can only partially replace them. The results help understand primary school teachers' opinions regarding using artificial intelligence tools in the learning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In this study, we soughta nanswer to the question of what canbe done to integrate sustainable development into learning environments in the context of teacher opinions. We followed a case study design to achieve this goal. The research's study group consists of 15 primary school teachers from northwest Turkey, who were chosen using criterion sampling. We used an interview form to gather research data and analyzed it with content analysis. Teachers think incorporating sustainable development into the learning environment brings many benefits to children. According to findings, sustainable development provided many gains to students. Findings in the context of teacher opinions were: 1) eco-friendly behavior; 2) literacy; 3) awareness of green technologies; and 4) awareness of green professions. In this context, sustainable development should be integrated into primary school curricula. Also, in the study, we emphasize a sustainable education for a sustainable future. In this context, the outputs of sustainable development should be used effectively in education and training environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...