Recognizing the importance of social justice, this chapter addresses methods related to the inclusion of students from countries and contexts with limited economic resources in science-related practical work by using chemistry as a characteristic case. “Practical work” refers to any science activity where students directly observe and/or manipulate the objects and materials of study. These activities may take place outside a formal lab setting, such as at the student’s home or outreach. Most importantly, in practical work, the learning processes of data collection and interpretation retain the characteristics of the tasks executed in “traditional” laboratory work. Practical work is crucial in science education, but its implementation in resource-constrained settings faces challenges. The development of “low-cost practical work” constitutes a promising approach for overcoming these barriers. These practices make use of inexpensive, readily available materials that fulfill the functions of standard lab equipment and may be supported by common digital equipment. Unlike micro-scale experiments that primarily focus on minimizing chemical usage but usually require the use of specialized lab equipment, low-cost materials aim to make science education accessible and affordable for schools with limited resources and therefore promote social inclusion in science.

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Promoting Inclusion in Science Education through Low-Cost Practical Work

  • Katerina Salta,
  • Katerina Paschalidou,
  • Dionysios Koulougliotis

摘要

Recognizing the importance of social justice, this chapter addresses methods related to the inclusion of students from countries and contexts with limited economic resources in science-related practical work by using chemistry as a characteristic case. “Practical work” refers to any science activity where students directly observe and/or manipulate the objects and materials of study. These activities may take place outside a formal lab setting, such as at the student’s home or outreach. Most importantly, in practical work, the learning processes of data collection and interpretation retain the characteristics of the tasks executed in “traditional” laboratory work. Practical work is crucial in science education, but its implementation in resource-constrained settings faces challenges. The development of “low-cost practical work” constitutes a promising approach for overcoming these barriers. These practices make use of inexpensive, readily available materials that fulfill the functions of standard lab equipment and may be supported by common digital equipment. Unlike micro-scale experiments that primarily focus on minimizing chemical usage but usually require the use of specialized lab equipment, low-cost materials aim to make science education accessible and affordable for schools with limited resources and therefore promote social inclusion in science.