An Australian-based authentic science research programme transforms the 21st century learning of rural high school students

Article


Puslednik, Louise and Brennan, Patrick C. 2020. "An Australian-based authentic science research programme transforms the 21st century learning of rural high school students." Australian Journal of Education. 64 (2), pp. 98-112. https://doi.org/10.1177/0004944120919890
Article Title

An Australian-based authentic science research programme transforms the 21st century learning of rural high school students

ERA Journal ID20013
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsPuslednik, Louise and Brennan, Patrick C
Journal TitleAustralian Journal of Education
Journal Citation64 (2), pp. 98-112
Number of Pages15
Year2020
PublisherSAGE Publications Ltd
Place of PublicationUnited Kingdom
ISSN0004-9441
2050-5884
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1177/0004944120919890
Web Address (URL)https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0004944120919890
Abstract

Authentic student-led inquiry and exposure to scientific research impact students’ science career choices. Given Australian students decline in STEM skills, knowledge of whether such programmes impact student learning is critical. This research examined the short-term impact of an authentic, hands-on research mentor programme on rural student’s science skills. Nine Year 10 students participated in a science academic research programme leading to scientific publications and students collecting of first-hand data from international experiments on a major world-wide health issue. The NSW Department of Education Year 10 VALID assessment scores of this intervention group were compared to a control group. Intervention students had significantly higher overall scores as well as significantly higher scores in 21st century skills. These results were supported by student’s self-assessment of their learning growth. Our study suggests authentic science research mentor programmes are pedagogically advantageous for Year 10 high achieving rural students. Educators’ willingness to embrace these innovative approaches has the potential to produce the next generation of scientists.

Keywordssecondary education, science skills; 21st century skills; university partnership; science education; university mentor; authentic science research; authentic science research
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020390113. Science, technology and engineering curriculum and pedagogy
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Byline AffiliationsSt Matthews Catholic School, Australia
University of Sydney
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