Mexican students at primary school and their perception and attitude towards science

Journal Title: European Journal of Science and Mathematics Education - Year 2015, Vol 3, Issue 4

Abstract

This study is part of a larger research project financed by CONACYT, the Mexican authority in Science, Research and Technology. The purpose of this study is to understand perception and attitude towards science of Mexican students at primary school level. Data were collected through a survey answered by 1,559 students from 38 private and public primary schools in 15 cities across Mexico. Findings show that the students from the sample have a positive perception of their science class, and a rather positive attitude towards science. They also report a positive attitude to math. They report that their teachers apply a diversity of teaching-learning techniques, such as the use of new technologies; the use of observation diaries; visits to museums, factories, parks and other institutions; applying surveys and interviews; teamwork; and so forth; which students like. Statistical analysis show no significant differences in attitude towards science between neither boys and girls, nor private and public school students. The complete research includes interviews to the students’ teachers and the principals of their schools that will further the understanding of teaching and learning of research and science in basic education in Mexico.

Authors and Affiliations

Ana Cuevas Romo| Department of Research, University of Celaya, México For correspondence: anacuevas@udec.edu.mx, Marylola Vega *| Language Department, University of Celaya, Méxicoö , Roberto Hernández Sampieri| Department of Research, University of Celaya, México

Keywords

Related Articles

Math is like a lion hunting a sleeping gazelle: preservice elementary teachers’ metaphors of mathematics

Preservice elementary teachers hold a variety of beliefs about mathematics and mathematics learning, which influence their teaching. Previous research has shown that preservice elementary teachers believe that mathematic...

The relationship between pre-service science teachers’ epistemological beliefs and preferences for creating a constructivist learning environment

The present study investigated the relationship between pre-service science teachers’ epistemological beliefs and perceptions of a constructivist learning environment. The Turkish version of Constructivist Learning Envir...

Extreme Apprenticeship – Engaging undergraduate students on a mathematics course

This paper describes how an educational method called Extreme Apprenticeship has been used in teaching mathematics to undergraduates. The aim has been to facilitate the transition from secondary to tertiary education and...

Challenges faced by teachers implementing socio-scientific issues as core elements in their classroom practices

Teachers may face considerable challenges when implementing socio?scientific issues (SSI) in their classroom practices, such as incorporating student?centred teaching practices and exploring knowledge and values in the c...

Challenges in mathematics and statistics teaching underpinned by student – lecturer expectations

This study is motivated by the desire to address some of the enormous challenges faced by the students as well as the lecturer in fulfilling their respective expectations and duties demanded by the process of learning –...

Download PDF file
  • EP ID EP8079
  • DOI -
  • Views 351
  • Downloads 25

How To Cite

Ana Cuevas Romo, Marylola Vega *, Roberto Hernández Sampieri (2015). Mexican students at primary school and their perception and attitude towards science. European Journal of Science and Mathematics Education, 3(4), 390-395. https://www.europub.co.uk/articles/-A-8079