A Short ‐ term and Long ‐ term Study of a Science Investigation Project in Geology, Used by Non ‐ science High School Students

Abstract

A geological investigation project named ‘Geotop’ was introduced into the high school geography curriculum of Israel as a vehicle to enhance geology and science education within this non‐science population. The evaluation research which followed the project from 1987 included assessment of the students’ achievements and attitudes towards the project. In 1992 an attitude questionnaire was posted to the home addresses of students who participated in the programme during its 5 years of implementation. The findings indicate that the students hold high positive attitudes in the affective and cognitive domains of the programme. They view the programme as a very meaningful and enjoyable learning experience. Most of the students use the geological knowledge and the thinking tools they acquired in their daily life, thus enhancing their understanding of their natural environment. For some of them this experience influenced their current and future choices of academic subjects.