Investigation of STEM Competencies of Teacher Candidates

摘要

This research is a descriptive study aimed determining STEM competencies of science and mathematics preservice teachers. For this purpose, the science and mathematics preservice teachers were asked to design and conduct parachutes covering the topics of movement (free fall, air resistance and lift force) in the course of physics I. It was expected to consider variables such as the qualities to be used in parachute design and the geometry of the parachute surface. It is recommended to choose materials which are easily found in everyday life, such as rope, fabric, paper, nylon, etc., Parachutes were assessed according to their longest stay in the air and thus they were expected to have a result. A total of 106 first grade science and mathematics preservice teachers studying at Bursa Uluda? University Faculty of Education Department of Mathematics and Science Education were included in the study. When the obtained data were evaluated, three categories were determined and the ratio of the most desirable category was found to be 6.6%. All the results obtained are evaluated and the reasons for the low success are discussed.