Investigation of Scientist Perceptions of Primary School Students with Learning Disabilities

Abstract

Introduction: The science curriculum aims to raise science literate individuals. Science literate individuals are expected to have an accurate understanding of the nature of science. Like students with typical development, students with learning disabilities need to have the right image of scientists as the first step to develop the right understanding of the nature of science. This study aims to reveal scientist perceptions of primary school students with learning disabilities. Method: For this purpose, the study was planned according to phenomenological design, one of the interactive research designs of qualitative research methods. The study group consisted of 24 students with learning disabilities studying in public primary schools in Kastamonu and Sakarya provinces. Draw-a-Scientist-Test (DAST) was used as the data collection tool in the study. Additionally, a semi-structured interview form was utilized to increase the understandability of the data. Data were analyzed using DAST-C and inductive analysis techniques. The comprehensibility of the drawings of the students with learning disabilities was supported with interview data. Findings: The participants scored between 3 and 10 in the test. Students with learning disabilities had traditional perceptions of scientists in terms of their appearance (lab coat, glasses, messy hair and beard, origin and age) and gender. Additionally, as for the scientists' work environment, it was found that they deviate from the traditional scientist image (except for laboratory instruments, technology symbols and indoor environment). Discussion: In order to reach the next generation science standards, it is important for students to have an accurate understanding of the nature of science as well as learning scientific facts, laws and theories. One of the prerequisites for having a correct understanding of the nature of science is to have a correct image of the scientist, the subject of science. The study revealed that students with learning disabilities have the potential to have perceptions of contemporary scientists through activities. It is recommended that teachers organize activities that will enable students with learning disabilities to have a perception of contemporary scientists.