Informed Decisions By Elementary Students In Web-Assisted Problem-Based Learning In Nanotechnology

Informed decision making is part of critical thinking skills necessary for survival. A retrospective analysis of interview results from a web-assisted Problem-Based Learning (PBL) project in nanotechnology on sunscreen selection involving elementary school students(1, 2) showed the emergence of informed decision making. Most student decisions were based on Risks (e.g., damages to health) and Benefits (e.g., transparent sunscreens) (35.6%), and an understanding of Nano Properties (28.5%), followed by Improve Safety (e.g., impact on health) (10.7%), an understanding of Hands-On (10.7%) nature of science, General (10.7%) feeling of science as "fun," a need to follow Steps in Scientific Methods (8.9%). Society's Needs (7.1%), Solves Society's Problems (7.1%), Need to Consult Alternative Perspectives (3.6%), and Science Work Ethic (3.6%) also have played a part in their decision. Implications for STEM classroom practices, teacher education, and research are discussed.