A National Science Fair: Exhibiting support for the knowledge economy

Abstract

Student-directed, open-ended scientific investigations and invention projects may serve to deepen and broaden students' scientific and technological literacy and, in so doing, enable them to succeed in democracies greatly affected by processes and products of science and technology. Science fairs, events at which student-led projects are evaluated and celebrated, could contribute to such positive personal and social outcomes.Qualitative data drawn from a national science fair over succeeding years indicate (after analyses of largely qualitative data, using constant comparative methods) that, apart from positive outcomes regarding science literacy, there may be some significant issues about the fair that warrant critical review. It is apparent from these studies that there are issues of access, image and recruitment associated with the fair. Qualification for participation in the fair appears to favour students from advantaged, resource-rich backgrounds.Although these students do benefit in a number of ways from the fair experience, it is apparent that science fairs also greatly benefit sponsors -who can, in a sense, use science fairs for promotional and recruitment purposes. These findings and claims raised, for us, some important questions possibly having implications for science education and for society more generally.

Teacher participation in science fairs as professional development in South Africa

“…This belief is in agreement with that of researchers, who argue that learners who participate in science fairs are exposed to a broad diversity of education. 7 In turn, it may be expected that such beliefs influence pedagogical strategies.…”

“…4 They also believe that science fair projects have educational significance, in particular, that science fairs challenge learners with academic rigour, establish useful skills, and complement other efforts to address the science achievement gap. [4][5][6] Bencze and Bowen 7 and McComas 8 find that science fairs benefit learners through science inquiry and provide an advantage in science literacy.…”

Challenges and Benefits of Introducing a Science and Engineering Fair in High-Needs Schools (Work in Progress)

“…Proponents also argue that S&E fairs enhance students' interest in science and science careers. 3,6 And there is some evidence to support this belief based on students self-reported increases in knowledge and attitudes in a British science fair program. 8 There are a number of studies that confirm these perceptions of S&E fairs.…”

“…1,2 However, S&E Fairs put demands on teachers, parents, and students for time and resources. 3,4 Organizing such an event is especially demanding in the first few years of implementation. As a result, poor and low-achieving schools are less likely to implement such a program for their students, despite the potential benefits 1,3,4 .…”

“…3,4 Organizing such an event is especially demanding in the first few years of implementation. As a result, poor and low-achieving schools are less likely to implement such a program for their students, despite the potential benefits 1,3,4 . Our study is based on data from teachers from mostly low-achieving schools who engaged in a program focused on introducing S&E Fairs at their schools.…”