The Need for Scientific Experiments: The Experience of Pre-service Science Teachers

The availability of scientific information nowadays necessitates scientifically literate learners and teachers well-versed in both content and nature of science (NOS). Despite a clear description of NOS in the Malaysian Education Blueprint, NOS elements have been sidelined by educational practices in Malaysia. This study illuminates the conceptions of pre-service science teachers in Malaysia about one aspect of NOS— the purpose for scientific experimentation. A phenomenographic approach was used to achieve this aim where 10 pre-service teachers were interviewed. Findings revealed three categories, namely a) Experiments prove, b) Experiments invent, and c) Experiments support ideas. The findings also inferred that there are more ways to conceptualise the purpose of scientific experiments other than what has been previously reported. This paper concludes with suggestions on improving the current practices of experimentation in schools and calls for a rethink on the current teachers’ preparatory course in Malaysia.