Science clubs : making science fun

Abstract

The main aim of the research was to explore the benefits of introducing science clubs in schools as extra-curricular activities. Current and past studies reveal circumstances in which pupils are not being given enough time to engage in practical and hands-on activities in the science classroom. For these reasons the idea of science clubs in schools can provide students the opportunity to enjoy learning science in an informal setting and allow more room for activities and games which could not be possible otherwise. In order to gather views and ideas about science clubs and their profitable contribution to science education, a science club was set up in a boys' area secondary school where eight, male, form 2 students participated and formed the science club. I met the students for seven times and during these seven sessions the students took part in the various science activities which I organised. At the end of the science club sessions, I interviewed the students to obtain their views about science in general, their attitudes towards learning science in the classroom, and about the science club. The results indicate that science students are yearning for more experimental work and active learning. The participants not only enjoyed the science club activities but also recommended that each school should be equipped with such important clubs and thus enable students to be actively involved when learning science.