The opinions of secondary students on multicultural science education applications

The global migrations are occurring worldwide due to factors such as political, technological, economic, and warfare influences. These migrations have resulted in diverse individuals from different cultures living together. To foster acceptance of individuals from different cultures, there is a need to integrate multiculturalism with education. The aim of this study is to gather the opinions of middle school students regarding applications prepared according to multicultural science education standards. The method employed in this study is a case study, a qualitative research method. The research was conducted with 5th-grade middle school students in Mamak district of Ankara province, selected through purposive sampling. During the research process, the 2018 Science Education Curriculum was examined, and the competencies were transformed to be suitable for a multicultural educational environment. Based on the expanded competencies, activities were prepared by the researcher according to the students' scientific and mental levels. Activities prepared in accordance with multicultural education principles were administered to the students, and data were collected through a researcher-prepared opinion form after their application. The researcher also observed the performances of teachers and students during the activities using an observation form. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis method. The study concluded that students developed multicultural skills and values, held positive views towards multicultural lessons, showed increased participation in multicultural science education classes, and raised expectations towards multicultural science education.