An example application of the STEM SOS model in 7th grade science class: Interaction of light with matter

This study aims to examine the impact of science lessons conducted with activities designed according to the STEM SOS model on students' academic achievement and attitudes toward STEM. A quasi-experimental research method was used in this study. The research group consists of a total of 42 students studying in two different sections—control and experimental groups—who were enrolled in the 7th-grade science course at a middle school in Malatya during the 2023-2024 academic year. The experimental group received lessons using STEM SOS model activities. As data collection tools, an achievement test developed by the researcher and a STEM attitude scale were used. The data obtained in the study were analyzed using the SPSS software program. In addition to descriptive statistics, the data were analyzed using inferential statistical methods (Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests). The research findings indicated that there was no significant difference in students' pre-test scores for achievement and STEM attitudes, whereas a significant difference in favor of the experimental group was found in the post-test scores. The STEM SOS activities implemented in this study can serve as a valuable resource for teachers and researchers.