The relevance of non-formal Biology Olympiad training for upper secondary school students

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31129/LUMAT.6.2.311

Keywords:

science education, science competitions, non-formal education, out-of-school learning, gifted students, relevance

Abstract

Science competitions, such as the International Biology Olympiad, are non-formal education targeted to upper secondary school students with high abilities. However, there is little knowledge about what is the relevance of training for a science competition. In this study, Finnish Biology Olympiad training participants were researched in the context of relevance of science education. In total, 28 students filled in questionnaires and participated in interviews. It was found out that the students experienced the training to be especially individually relevant for them, and there was no significant difference between genders. Based on the results, vocational and societal topics should be taken into more account in designing Olympiad trainings.

Author Biography

Maija Aksela, LumA Science Education Centre, University of Helsinki, Finland

Professor Maija Aksela

The University of Helsinki LumA Science Education Centre

The Faculty of Science, University of Helsinki

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Published

2018-09-17

How to Cite

Mutanen, J., & Aksela, M. (2018). The relevance of non-formal Biology Olympiad training for upper secondary school students. LUMAT: International Journal on Math, Science and Technology Education, 6(2), 126–145. https://doi.org/10.31129/LUMAT.6.2.311

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