The impact of science education through creative drama activities on student success, scientific attitudes and self-confidence

Purpose: The aim of this study is to examine the impact of using the creative drama method in science classes on students' academic achievement, attitudes towards the science subject, and self-confidence. Method: The research was conducted with 6th grade students at a secondary school in Eskişehir during the 2023-2024 academic year. The study was modeled using a mixed research design. In the quantitative dimension of the research, a pre-test and post-test experimental study was carried out with control groups. In the qualitative dimension of the research, a researcher journal was maintained, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with the students in the experimental group after the implementation. During the application process, science classes were conducted in accordance with the curriculum for both the experimental and control groups. In addition to the existing curriculum, creative drama activities were implemented over 8 weeks for the experimental group. In lessons taught with the creative drama method, as well as in both experimental and control groups, the same instructional methods were applied. Success tests regarding the solar system and eclipses, as well as attitude and self-confidence scales for science and technology were administered as pre-tests and post-tests. Throughout the research process, a researcher journal was maintained, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with the students in the experimental group. Results: The students in the experimental group were found to have significantly higher scores in the final test of the solar system and eclipses, the final test of self-confidence scale, and the science attitude scale compared to the control group (p<0.05). When the experimental group was examined, statistically significant differences were found between the pre-test and post-test results in all tests (p<0.05). When analyzing the interview questions and the data in the researcher's journal, it was determined that students enjoyed the lessons conducted using the creative drama method and developed a positive perception that it enhanced their attitudes towards science, academic success, and self-confidence. Conclusion and Suggestions: According to the data obtained, it has been observed that the creative drama method has a positive impact on students' academic achievement, science attitude, and self-confidence. Considering these results, it is recommended to use the creative drama method in different grade levels and subjects, apart from science classes. Keywords: Science, Middle School, Creative Drama