Green Chemistry Awareness within STEM-Based Laboratory Activities: The Ecological Soap Experiment Example

Özlüsoy A., Akkuzu Güven N.

28th IUPAC International Conference on Chemistry Education & 17th EuChemS European Conference of Research in Chemical Education (ICCECRICE 2026), Erzurum, Türkiye, 13 - 17 Temmuz 2026, ss.97, (Özet Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Erzurum
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Türkiye
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.97
  • Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study aimed to investigate the effect of STEM-based laboratory activities on pre-service chemistry teachers' awareness of green chemistry. The study was conducted in the spring semester of the 2023-2024 academic year with 16 pre-service chemistry teachers studying at the chemistry education department of a state university in Izmir. Participants' green chemistry awareness levels were assessed using a pre-test/post-test employing a green chemistry awareness scale. Additionally, qualitative data were collected through reflective journals during the application and focus group interviews at the end of the application. A green chemistry information presentation was delivered during the application process, and training was provided on how to use the Twine and Tinkercad applications. Participants were then presented with a problem scenario involving chemicals banned by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in liquid soaps due to their harmful effects on human health and the environment. They were asked to produce an eco-friendly soap with antibacterial properties, taking into account the principles of green chemistry. Participants produced their soaps as part of the engineering design process, moulded their soaps using soap moulds modelled on Tinkercad using a 3D printer, and analysed the quality of their soaps after they had dried. Finally, they reported on all the activities they had carried out during the application and presented their experiment results using the Twine programme. At the end of the activity, the green chemistry awareness scale was reapplied as a final test, and focus group interviews were conducted with the participants. The results showed that STEM-based laboratory activities can increase pre-service chemistry teachers' awareness of green chemistry; through the production of ecological soap, pre-service teachers gained insights into the principles of green chemistry. In this context, they gained awareness of harmful chemicals, the applicability of the principles, and the challenges encountered.