The effect of Web 2.0 based blended learning environments in science education on academic success of students

In this study, the effects of Web 2.0-based blended learning environments on students' academic achievement and student opinions in science education were examined. The study was applied to 6th grade students studying in a public secondary school in Antalya in the 2021-2022 academic year. Two branches with similar success levels were randomly selected and the branches were divided into experimental and control groups. There are a total of 70 students in the study, 35 students in the control group and 35 students in the experimental group. With the control group students, the unit "sound and its features" was taught in accordance with the curriculum. The "sound and its features" unit was taught with the experimental group students in blended learning environments using Web 2.0 tools. In the study, the "Sound and Characteristics Academic Achievement Test", whose validity and reliability studies were carried out, was applied. "Sound and Characteristics Academic Achievement Test" was applied to the control and experimental groups before and after the study as a pre-test and post-test. The data obtained from the academic achievement test, pre-test and post-test applied to the control and experimental group students were analyzed with the SPSS program. In addition, after the application, a semi-structured interview form prepared by the researcher was applied to determine the ideas of the experimental group students related to web 2.0 tools. As a result of the study, it was seen that the use of web 2.0 tools in science education both in school and out-of-school environments increased the academic success of students. In addition, students' views on using web 2.0 applications in science education were examined. Students stated that learning with web 2.0 applications is fun and enjoyable. At the same time, they stated that the opportunity to see the exam results immediately and to examine the activities of their friends was one of their favorite aspects of the application. The students in the experimental group stated in the interview form that web 2.0 applications are necessary in science education and that they support learning positively. Web 2.0 applications in science education are recommended to be used by science teachers and all educators in their lessons, as they significantly increase academic success and enable students to learn while having fun without getting bored. KEYWORDS: Academic Achievement, Science Education, Blended Learning, Web 2.0 Tools