Development and Application of NABI(NAture-study Based Ideas) Program for 'Science Education through Nature'

Abstract

This study aims to develop the NABI program, which can be applied to science education in school, to realize 'Science Education through Nature' for today's students. The first NABI program was developed based on the viewpoints of education and teaching methods of Nature-Study, and it was revised as the second NABI program through experts' workshop. The second NABI program was applied to 24 third-grade students of an elementary school. The possibility of applying the program to school science education was explored through the analysis of students' qualitative data, along with surveys that were completed by 24 students and 79 current teachers. As a result of applying the program, students were curious about and communed with nature. The program could also realize the learner-centered education and integration of subjects, science with literature and art. The students were interested and wanted to continually participate in the NABI program. The teachers' evaluation of the program deduced that the relationship between the program presenting Nature-Study ideologies could be applied to science education in school. In conclusion, it was found that the NABI program was well reflected in the scope of the Nature-Study, and it can be applied to science education in school. The NABI program proceeds in nine steps: 'Accepting - Choosing - Selecting the common subject - Ice Breaking - Making relationship - Observing - Scaffolding - Expressing - Sharing'. The NABI program is a good way to realize the essence of science education, 'Science Education through Nature', for today's students.