The effect of STEM based laboratory training on STEM readiness, scientific process and decision making skills of preservice teachers

The STEM education approach is defined as a teaching model that is put into practice by integrating four important disciplines such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In this model, which emphasizes the application of knowledge to real-life problem solving, it is concluded that an effective STEM education approach should include a pedagogy that focuses on real-life problems, concerns and problems. Undoubtedly, the importance of STEM education approach is increasing in order to keep up with today's rapid technological developments. For this purpose, it is essential to research the scope, theory and applications of the STEM education approach at all educational levels and to reorganize the curriculum in accordance with the approach. Teachers face many challenging responsibilities in the 21st century. The most important one; To organize the most effective learning activities and lessons for students through education based on established standards. The STEM education approach is one that is believed to help teachers cope with this challenge. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of STEM-Based Laboratory Education on Science Teacher Candidates' STEM Readiness Levels, Scientific Process and Decision-Making Skills. The research was carried out in a single-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design. The study group consists of 3rd grade students of Düzce University Education Faculty Science Education. "Scientific Process Skill Scale", "Decision Making Skill Test", "STEM Readiness Scale" were applied to the study group as pre-test and post-test. The obtained data were analyzed using the SPSS package program. According to the results of the research, it was concluded that STEM-based laboratory education had a significant effect on the STEM Readiness Levels, Scientific Process and Decision-Making Skills of teacher candidates. In line with these results, suggestions were made to the researchers.