Assessing the Development of Scientific Literacy among Undergraduates College of Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the development of scientific literacy among scientific departments at Najran University College of education, as well as the effects of demographic variables on it. The Sample of the study consisted of (20%) of the study population which included all students at scientific department (Physics, chemistry, Math's) of the college of education chosen randomly. To achieve these objectives (yes/ no) test, multiple choice as well as one open ended question was employed. After being analyzed, results showed the students scientific literacy develops through their university study years particularly during the late years, however what is gained through time did not exceed (10%), meanwhile the general level of scientific literacy was accepted and within employment scientific literacy according to Bybee scale among most of the students.

Results found no specific variable affecting scientific literacy among students except number of scientific courses studied by students; however its effect was weak. Finally, the study recommended the necessity of reconsidering teachers preparing program at college of education, as well as the addition of scientific literacy course in their study, in addition to improving academic courses at scientific departments, while connecting them to society issues.