Integrating Geosciences, Astronomy, and Art: An STS-Based Nature Education Model for Middle School Students

This study presents an interdisciplinary nature education project, "Earth Sciences, Astronomy, and Art-II," funded by TÜBİTAK 4004 (Grant No: 118B919). The program was designed to enhance Scientific Process Skills (SPS) and creativity in middle school students through a Science-Technology-Society (STS) approach. By bridging abstract scientific concepts with real-world applications, the curriculum integrated geosciences, astronomy, and art into experiential learning opportunities.

The pedagogical intervention included field studies at Olympos-Beydağları Coastal National Park and the Chimera (Yanartaş) site, where students investigated the "geological mystery" of flaming rocks by contrasting scientific evidence with mythological narratives. Laboratory-based activities involved hands-on modeling of plate tectonics, earthquake mechanisms, and rock cycles using clay and simulations to visualize dynamic Earth processes. Astronomy sessions focused on night sky observations using telescopes, constellation mapping, and solar system scaling.

The program's effectiveness was evaluated using a quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design with 60 students. Quantitative results, measured via the Test for Creative Thinking-Drawing Production (TCT-DP) and SPS tests, demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in overall creativity, with mean scores rising from 33.77 to 39.02 (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.92). Qualitative analysis showed a transformation from simple sketches to complex interdisciplinary process models integrating energy, biology, and engineering. This study highlights the impact of field-based, STS-oriented education in fostering 21st-century scientific literacy.