Transforming STEM Education: The Impact of the RETA Model on Pre-Service Teachers' Attitudes and Lesson Planning

Year 2024, Volume: 11 Issue: 1, 48 - 64, 30.04.2024

Belma Türker Biber , İpek Saralar-aras

https://doi.org/10.30900/kafkasegt.1412764

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of an innovative teaching model, the Realistic, Exploratory, Technology-enhanced, and Active (RETA) model, on the STEM attitudes of senior-grade pre-service teachers. The research involved 65 participants from a public university in Turkey. Employing a comprehensive approach, the study utilized a STEM attitude scale, a RETA-based lesson evaluation rubric, and semi-structured interviews to gather both qualitative and quantitative data. The results revealed a noteworthy correlation between pre-service teachers with positive attitudes towards the RETA approach and their heightened efficacy in developing impactful lesson plans. Through the application of the RETA model, participants demonstrated an increased inclination towards innovative teaching strategies, emphasizing the integration of 21st-century skills. Furthermore, post-course assessments indicated a significant positive shift in attitudes, with participants recognizing the model's potential to foster equity within their teaching practices. This research contributes valuable insights into the integration of digital technologies in the classroom, offering a robust framework for pre-service teachers to enhance their pedagogical approaches.

Keywords

stem education, preservice teachers, reta model, innovative teaching model, attitude shift

Ethical Statement

The research started with the decision of the [Blinded] University Human Research and Ethics Committee dated 25/10/2021 and numbered 2021/07-21. Due to COVID-19, the distance education process was postponed and completed with face-to-face training. In the research, pre-service teachers were asked to prepare individual lesson plans during the process. The lesson plans were requested to be as original as possible, and they were warned to pay attention to the sharing of different ideas among themselves. In addition, before the semi-structured interviews were conducted, all participants were informed about the content of the study and it was stated that their answers would be used only for research purposes, that the data would be kept, and that they could leave the study if they wished. However, it was emphasized that their sincere answers to the research questions were important for the scientific validity and reliability of the research.

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