Classroom teacher students points of view on applicability of the authentic learning approach: A case of researching the science and technology laboratory

The study is on the authentic learning approach that can be used in addition to constructivism. The purpose of this study and this approach is to investigate the applicability of laboratory science and technology course.The participants of the study consisted of classroom teaching students who were studying at Akdeniz University. The study was conducted in the spring semester of 2013 – 2014. In the study, elementary school science books were used. Qualitative research methods were used in an integrated single case study. The data was collected and it consisted of recording, documents and observer notes. Descriptive and content analysis were used. Student's views on authentic learning activities and environmental conditions were studied to determine if they have an effect on authentic learning approach. Also, students' expectations of the lesson were looked at determine if they could change after trying authentic learning approach. When the authentic learning approach is used sometimes negative side effects are met. These include: the existence of too many students in the class, incomplete materials for some activities, student being unfamiliar with the laboratory, work rules and a lack of confidence seen in students. On the other hand, sometimes positive side effects are met. These include: an increased motivation in the experimental group,learning becoming fun the students having a higher sence of responsibility, students having gained different perspectives and their creativity has been enriched.This new way of thinking that they learned from authentic learning approach will not only effect their future careers, but also may effect their future kids. The findings show us that this approach can be applied in the field of education. Keywords: authentic learning, authentic activities, authentic science education, qualitative research, teacher students