Examining The Effects of the Project Titled “Mineral Hunters: An Adventure in the Footsteps of Geology”

Authors : Funda Çıray Özkara, Ersen Yoldaç, Melih Ünlüer, Hülya Erkoyun, Gökhan Kayır, Engin Yılmaz

Pages : 115-140

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Publication Date : 2025-03-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study examines the impact of the TÜBİTAK-supported project, “Mineral Hunters: An Adventure on the Trail of Geology” on secondary school students in Eskişehir, Türkiye. The project aimed to increase students’ curiosity about the region’s underground resources, including semi-precious gemstones and minerals, and to provide hands-on experiences in geology. Conducted over six days with 41 sixth and seventh grade students, the Project works involved both theoretical and applied activities, such as workshops, field trips, and creative tasks. In the study designed with explanatory sequential design from mixed method models, pre-test and post-test were applied in order to measure the knowledge levels of the students before and after the project. Results showed a significant improvement in students’ understanding of mineralogy and geology, with seventh-grade students showing higher achievement. The majority of students reported enjoying the project, particularly the hands-on activities and creative drama workshops. However, some students expressed dissatisfaction with the trip’s conditions, such as high temperatures and poor internet connectivity. Overall, the project was effective in enhancing students’ knowledge, skills, and interest in geology, suggesting the value of experiential learning in fostering deeper engagement with scientific topics. In light of the results obtained from the study, it is recommended that similar works, which allow students to learn by doing and observe on-site, be promoted.
Keywords : Jeoloji, kayaçlar, mavi kalsedon, okul dışı öğrenme, mineraloji, bilim okuryazarlığı, TÜBİTAK

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