Teachers' views on environmental problems in science curriculum

This study aims to determine the views of science teachers working in secondary schools in Körfez and Izmit districts of Kocaeli, regarding environmental problems in Science Curriculum. The study group consists of 14 science teachers working in secondary schools in Izmit and Korfez districts of Kocaeli. The study was carried out with qualitative method and screening model. As a data collection tool, semi-structured interview form developed by the researcher was used. Teacher data obtained through personal interviews were analyzed by descriptive analysis technique. According to the findings of the research;They stated that science teachers faced some difficulties in dealing with environmental issues. These; inability to understand scientific statements, students' sloppy behavior, problems related to course content, application deficiencies related to gains, inadequate awareness among students and cannot abandon students' habits. Some of the science teachers stated that biodiversity, habitat, ecosystem, fossil fuels, global warming and sustainable development subjects in the science curriculum are not suitable for the students' class levels. In addition, it was concluded that science teachers did not find enough time for environmental issues in the curriculum and could not develop environmental projects. However, teachers stated that the calendar and place of the fuel and water cycle issues should be changed. Science teachers stated that they could not benefit from natural learning environments in teaching environmental issues because they faced some difficulties. These challenges; economic conditions, bureaucracy and time.