Open AccessPromoting student interest in science: The impact of a science theatre project
Author(s) -
Lydia Schulze Heuling
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
lumat
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.169
H-Index - 3
ISSN - 2323-7112
DOI - 10.31129/lumat.9.2.1489
Subject(s) - disadvantaged , mathematics education , science class , class (philosophy) , science education , pedagogy , work (physics) , sociology , psychology , engineering , political science , computer science , artificial intelligence , law , mechanical engineering
Researchers have often noted the potential of the performing arts to support STEM education – especially in heterogeneous classrooms. This article reports on the implementation of a science theatre project in a secondary school class located in a disadvantaged area of Hamburg (Germany). In the accompanying research study, effects on students' interest in STEM and artistic expression were surveyed. Data analysis using t-tests shows that the artistic work significantly increased students' interest in physics and chemistry, and specifically in the process of galvanization, the project's focus topic. The analysis also revealed a growth in students' knowledge of cultural practices, self-confidence, joy in individual artistic expression, and classroom spirit during the course of the project.