Associations between learning environment and students’ attitudes and understanding of nature of science

Abstract

Associations between the classroom learning environment and the student outcomes of attitudes towards science and understanding of nature of science (NOS) were investigated for a sample of 246 secondary students in Midwestern US. Questionnaires were found to be valid and generally students’ attitudes and understanding of NOS were more favorable in classrooms with more positive learning environments in terms of greater involvement, investigation, cooperation and task orientation.