The Safety of Science Activities in an Inclusive Elementary Classroom

Abstract

As elementary teachers engage their students in scientific inquiry, they often turn to the internet as a resource for rapidly locating scientific activities to use in an inclusive classroom. In these circumstances, however, how can the elementary level teacher know whether the science activities are safe? Even if safety is included within the activities, how does the elementary level teacher know if all safety issues have adequately been addressed? The purpose of this article is to highlight potential safety concerns involving elementary science activities and to provide a checklist to use when evaluating the safety of science activities prior to implementing these activities within the inclusive classroom. If the use of the checklist calls attention to a safety concern in a particular activity, we suggest trying to modify the activity first to make it safe. If the activity cannot be modified to eliminate all safety concerns, then it is recommended that the elementary level teacher search for a different activity that does not pose any hazards. The checklist and supporting background information provided within this paper is intended to help teachers confidently provide a positive learning environment in which all students can safely learn science through inquiry and exploration.

The Safety of Physics Science Activities in a High School Physics Classroom

“…In conclusion, if an activity is determined to be unsafe to use in the classroom, the high school physics teacher can modify the activity to make it safe. If the activity cannot be modified to ensure safety, then a different, safe activity should be substituted [2] [3].…”

“…Students are to follow the general laboratory safety guidelines as provided by the physics teacher. Because moving parts can present a hazard, students are to avoid wearing baggy clothing, avoid wearing big, bulky jewelry, tie back long hair, avoid bringing unnecessary materials to the laboratory, e.g., cell phones, book bags, purses, and remove all ear phones/ear buds in the laboratory area [2]. Students are to wear closed-toed shoes.…”

“…It is especially important for students to follow safety guidelines [2] [3] to ensure the safety of all students in the physics classroom and laboratory. Physics teachers should send safety acknowledgment forms (safety contracts) to parents/guardians to make them aware of best practices for physics instructional safety and file them according to state/district policy [5].…”

“…4) How can a physics teacher determine if the activity is safe to implement? In order to assist these inexperienced physics teachers to address these questions, we have prepared a Safety Evaluation Checklist for Physics Teachers [2].…”

Effects of Drug Abuse on Primary Education: An Overview Context

“…For instance, a study by Bulfin & North (2008) revealed a clear correlation between substance abuse and lower standardized test scores among elementary school students, indicating the detrimental influence of drugs on academic achievement. Similarly, research conducted by (Meier et al, 2014) emonstrated a link between drug use during childhood and increased likelihood of behavioral problems, disciplinary issues, and poor attendance in primary schools.…”