Evaluation of Learning Stations on Earth Science Concepts by Gifted Students: Bursa PUYED Example

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess effects of science lessons about earth sciences supported
with learning stations on gifted students. The study was conducted in Gifted Children
Association (PUYED) with four gifted fifth grade students. The students visited three stations.
Semi-structured interviews, science journals and student answers to questions of instructions
were used as data collection tools. An action research was used as a research design. Findings
gathered from the journals revealed that students had general knowledge about earthquakes,
geological faults, and volcanoes prior to station visits. They were observed to explain concepts
like tectonic plate movements, how earthquakes occur and mountain-earthquake relationship
elaborately. After stations, students were able to make inferences by interpreting data and
establish model-reality connection. Students expressed in the interviews their desire to learn
scientific concepts with learning stations in their own schools. Using learning stations in their
science teaching programs is strongly recommended.