Students encounter science-related topics as early as in the first grade through the subject of environmental studies, with the complexity of these topics increasing vertically to the ninth grade. In addition to acquiring scientific knowledge and developing scientific literacy, an important aspect is also the process of shaping attitudes towards science and natural sciences as one of the pillars of modern society.
A review of studies conducted in Slovenia and abroad has shown an increasingly lower interest in natural sciences among young people, which is reflected in their attitudes towards science subjects as well as the declining scores in scientific literacy seen in international comparative research. Furthermore, despite the positive effect of nature on children's development, there is a noticeable alienation from nature and a subsequent deterioration of their relationship and concern for it.
Our research followed students from 6th and 7th grade at one of the Slovenian schools that participated in the Multipliers project (Horizon 2020). We aimed to examine whether the project contributes to the development of student's attitudes toward natural sciences and their understanding of the importance of forest ecosystem services. We conducted an empirical study using both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Through a survey, we assessed students' attitudes toward natural sciences and forest ecosystem services before and after participating in the project. We also conducted a semi-structured interview at the end of the project for triangulation purposes.
We found that the project positively contributed to the development of students' attitudes towards science and their understanding of the importance of forest ecosystem services in a relatively short period. Additionally, it encouraged students to visit forests more frequently, fostered a deeper connection with nature, strengthened environmental awareness, made complex scientific topics more accessible, improved science-related self-efficacy as well as slightly improved awareness of careers in science.
Through this research, we aim to highlight the importance of projects such as Multipliers in contributing to the development of students' attitudes towards natural sciences, making science more tangible and appealing in their eyes. We also aim to emphasize the significance of teaching young people about biodiversity and the importance of forest ecosystem services, so that they will be better equipped to face the environmental challenges of the modern world.
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