Content analysis of graduate studies based on STEM activity applications for secondary school students in the field of science education in Turkey

Education is one of the most fundamental instruments which is used to shape the future of societies. Knowledge and skill-based educational approaches aim to raise students as individuals who can produce solutions to real life problems. In this context, the field of science plays an important role in preparing future leaders by providing students with skills such as problem solving, critical thinking and cooperation. In recent years, the education system in Turkey has been emphasizing STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education more and aiming to increase students' interest in these fields. Based on these thoughts, this study aims to examine the graduate theses based on STEM activity applications for secondary school students in the field of science education in Turkey from a broad perspective. The sample of the study consists of graduate theses based on STEM activity applications for secondary school students in the field of science education in Turkey between the years 2016-2023. In this context, the study sample is limited to 61 theses related to the subject in the search made in the Council of Higher Education thesis archive. The study was conducted in the form of a documentary analysis. Content analysis was used in data analysis. According to the findings of the study, it was determined that nine of the theses were PhD dissertations and 52 of them were Master's theses. In addition, it was found that most of the theses were conducted with the seventh-grade level students and the most popular science unit was 'Force and Energy'. Besides, it was determined that the activities performed with the secondary school students mostly lasted for six weeks. In the context of the results obtained in the research; it is recommended that more studies might be conducted on STEM education on doctoral level. Also, more research can be carried out on the eighth grade level students. Besides, units except physics subjects can be addressed more in the studies.