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Agency Building with Early Research Exposure: A Study of an Undergraduate Science Education Exposure Program Bansal, Deepika; Chari, Deepa
Journal of Research in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education Vol. 1 No. 2 (2024): Journal of Research in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education
Publisher : Scientia Publica Media

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.70232/jrmste.v1i2.11

Abstract

Undergraduate research exposure provides students with opportunities to positively perceive their association with their scientific discipline through agentic experiences, and thereby fostering their disciplinary identity building. In the present study, we explore students’ experiences of participating in an undergraduate level research exposure camp in Chemistry discipline. The camp is organized under a national level nurture initiative for undergraduate science and engineering students in India. It is a two-week long residential camp in which students are engaged in lectures on theoretical topics in chemistry, problem solving sessions, long laboratory exercises, abstract writing session, and students’ seminars. The camp also serves as a first step to select a small cohort of students based on their performance in the different activities during the camp for extended research projects opportunities. We apply the critical science agency framework to examine students’ experiences during the camp, and how understand how students connect their prior experiences and future career related choices with their camp experiences. The qualitative analysis describes students’ accounts of the emergence of agentic personalities at the entry, during, and beyond the camp. We noted instances in which students’ decisions and subsequent actions of applying to and attending the camp surfaced, and through students’ narration interpreted how some of these were markers of critical science agency. Based on authors’ understanding, this is the first, and one of the few studies conducted using critical science agency framework with science undergraduate students about their early research experiences. The study provides insights about potential programmatic features for similar undergraduate research camps in India as well as on a global platform.
Engaging Science Teachers in Socioscientific Issue-Based Pedagogy in Indian Classrooms Kaushik, Meenakshi; Chunawala, Sugra; Chari, Deepa
Journal of Research in Environmental and Science Education Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): Journal of Research in Environmental and Science Education
Publisher : Scientia Publica Media

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.70232/jrese.v3i1.48

Abstract

The integration of Socioscientific Issues (SSIs) in science education has been widely recognised for its potential to enhance students’ scientific literacy and engagement with real-world issues. SSIs provide a framework for students to explore issues that intersect with science and technology (S&T), allowing them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. However, despite growing policy support, teachers often face challenges in implementing SSI-based pedagogy due to its multidisciplinary nature, lack of training resources, and time constraints. This study explores a prototype short-term intervention program aimed at equipping secondary science teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective SSI-based instruction. Grounded in the theoretical frameworks of co-construction and Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK), the intervention engaged two experienced science teachers in a structured process of developing and implementing SSI-based learning modules. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, recorded intervention sessions, teacher reflections, and module analyses. Findings indicate that while teachers recognised the value of SSIs in fostering student engagement and critical thinking, they encountered difficulties in balancing scientific content with social dimensions, managing value-laden discussions, and aligning SSI instruction with curricular demands. The study identifies key strategies and resources that facilitated teachers’ adaptation to SSI-based pedagogy, emphasising the role of reflective practices, contextualisation, and structured support in overcoming pedagogical challenges. By analysing teachers’ evolving PCK, this research contributes to the development of targeted professional development programs that bridge the gap between policy aspirations and classroom practices, ultimately promoting the integration of SSIs in science education.