Pre-service science teachers' understandings of an environmental issue: Ozone layer depletion

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine pre-service science teachers' misconceptions, knowledge level and the ways of gaining knowledge in relation to ozone layer and ozone layer depletion, which is one of the global environmental problems. In order to get relevant data, the questionnaire comprising 30 items on a five point Likert type scale and seven multiple choice questions were administered to 308 pre-service science teachers. Statistical procedures were performed in order to interpret the data obtained through the questionnaires. The findings revealed that the pre-service science teachers participated in the study have insufficient knowledge as well misconceptions regarding ozone layer depletion. In addition, it was also found out that they had the information about the ozone layer not only through formal education but also through other sources such as media, peers etc. The differences and similarities of the results compared to the other research studies are emphasized and implications of the results for deeper understanding as well as for better teaching are discussed.