BIONICS: An Out-of-School Day at the Zoo

Abstract

Bionics by definition combines science and technology, with nature acting as a model for technical applications. Bionics is expected to lead to a better understanding of the Nature of Science (NOS). We applied a hands-on inquiry-based module about bionics with sixth graders during a public bionics exhibition in a zoological garden that allowed students to act as researchers, i.e., to understand the problem-solving process and to search for methods to overcome problems. The practice of science and engineering was at the center of this intervention; for example, students were asked to provide explanations and design solutions in the bionics field (NGSS, 2017). From this complex field we showed examples using living animals in the zoo. Our students learned bionics topics directly on the living animal by transferring them later to bionics topics. The streamlined shape of the dolphin snout, the communication system of dolphins, and other examples, each with its technical and bionics application, were examined. Bionics can serve as a complement to other biology topics. An increase in cognitive knowledge was observed both immediately after intervention and after a complete school year. Male participants showed more interest in technology than females.

Measuring Students’ School Motivation

“…Earlier versions were known under the acronym SMQ (science motivation questionnaire). The instrument application has shown a flexible setting when adapted in diction, language, direct project reference, and age level [17][18][19]. As science motivation measurement can build upon some tradition of studies, observing general school motivation is still an open issue [17,20,21].…”

“…The instrument application has shown a flexible setting when adapted in diction, language, direct project reference, and age level [17][18][19]. As science motivation measurement can build upon some tradition of studies, observing general school motivation is still an open issue [17,20,21]. Reformulating this instrument for a school level may offer a bridge for an appropriate measure for self-reported general school motivation.…”