Handbook preparation as a tool for self- directed learning process: A case study on endocrine topic

This study examines the effectiveness of handbook preparation as a method in the self-directed learning process of student teachers in teaching endocrine glands, and increasing their levels of knowledge. Thirty student teachers were selected from a biology department. A pencil and paper test and a clinical interview procedure were used to collect data. The test had two open-ended questions investigating the knowledge level of the sample about endocrine glands and the basic concepts of the subject. The interview was conducted to search the effectiveness of the handbook preparation process on self-directed learning of the student teachers. The results revealed that the student teachers had very limited knowledge and also had misconceptions related to the endocrine topic. The handbook preparation method was very helpful for the student teachers to overcome their misconceptions about the subject and to increase their knowledge level. It was suggested that handbook preparation may be helpful for teaching other biology topics as a self-directed learning tool. However, it should be considered that the student teachers had heterogeneity with respect to skills.