WILL THE CONTRUCTIVIST APPROACH EMPLOYED IN SCIENCE TEACHING CHANGE THE "GRAMMAR" OF SCHOOLING?

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the extent to which constructive approach in Primary School Science and Technology subject programme is reflected in the classroom atmosphere. For this purpose, the study investigates how students perceive cooperativeness in the classroom, order and student involvement, teacher involvement and support and which factor(s) in the new programme are thought to be better than the ones In the old programme. The present study where descriptive method was applied was carried out with 371 fifth grade students. In the study, Classroom Environment Scale was used The students positively perceive the new classroom environment where the new Science and Technology subject programme is applied. The findings obtained from the study indicate the reflections of constructivist approach in the classroom environment and considerable presence of behaviourism as well.