Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) enables the study of matter at the nanoscale; hence, it is responsible for numerous advances in scientific research. This vast contribution to science could be replicated in science education as well, by making SEM accessible to students and teachers. The central challenge lies in designing a SEM activity that employs the advantages of the microscope and provides students with an authentic SEM experience. The approach for developing this activity was to use design principles deduced from the teaching goals of the activity and the scientific nature of SEM. The design principles of the activity are as follows: 1. Scientific curiosity, 2. Multidiscipline, 3. Collaboration, and 4. Pedagogical Content Knowledge development.<br/>In this study we examined how the SEM activity design influenced students, their attitudes towards different aspects of learning science and their perception of the authenticity of the SEM activity. Participants: Eight classes (N=185 students) who participated in the SEM activity and filled-in questionnaires developed by our research group.<br/>The results indicate that the SEM informal activity, which was designed to provide an authentic environment for informal science learning, was perceived as authentic by the participating students. We found that, for some groups, when students worked with scientists on the SEM activity, they had an opportunity to ask them about the topic under investigation as well as to inquire about the scientists’ work, future plans, and even their personal life experiences. This discourse opened a window into the nature of the scientists’ actual work. It also provided opportunities to experience authentic science.<br/>In the symposium we will present how the 4 design principles were used in developing the SEM activity and how the students responded to them. We will also discuss challenges for students exposed to contemporary content, and discuss how these challenges can be addressed in the SEM environment based on our results.

Design principles of an authentic SEM learning activity for high-school chemistry students

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.