Developing scientific literacy for student teachers through active learning

This paper reported a study on how active learning of science enhanced the scientific literacy of student teachers of a Bachelor of Education Programme. The study aimed to investigate the development of student teachers' science understanding, skills and attitudes, which are the important components of scientific literacy, after active participation in science activities. The sample selected for the study consisted of 79 student teachers, their work and writings on their journals were collected and analyzed. These included student teachers' expected observations, observations and records, and interpretations in the activities; thoughts and reflections after engaging in the activities; the descriptions of the science skills used and the importance of each skill. Features of practice that supported active learning of science through different aspects of science activities were identified. Issues to be considered in future use of science activities in teacher education program to develop student teachers' scientific literacy were also discussed.