A preliminary investigation of the extent of science and science-related fieldwork in Maltese secondary schools

Abstract

Objective - To investigate the extent to which fieldwork is used in Maltese secondary schools, the factors which might affect fieldwork and the attitudes of teachers. Setting - All local State and Private secondary schools. Methods - Questionnaires were distributed to all teachers of Biology, Science, Geography, and Environmental Studies in secondary schools. The results were analysed statistically. Results - Of the 159 teachers who completed the questionnaire, 66% performed fieldwork. However, over 90% thought that fieldwork was relevant, useful and important Performance of fieldwork was not affected by the age, gender or teaching experience of the teachers but was significantly different according to school type, being highest in Junior Lyceum, and least in private schools. However all teachers in mixed private schools perform field activities. Teachers prefer to perform fieldwork over a whole school day, or in the time allocated to the subject, rather than during free periods or weekends. Fieldwork is performed at various sites as well as in field centres. Conclusions - Although Maltese teachers feel strongly about fieldwork the amount performed is relatively small. This is possibly due to organisational problems and inadequate emphasis in the school curriculum.