Eco-mathematics project evaluation for middle school students

This study, conducted as part of the "Eco-Mathematics for Middle School Students" project supported by the TUBITAK 4004 Nature Education and Science Schools, aimed to measure the potential changes or developments in middle school students' attitudes and awareness towards mathematics and the environment, and to determine their level of knowledge in relation to mathematical thinking skills in solving eco-mathematical problems and generating creative solutions to environmental problems. The project focused on sustainability, water and environmental pollution, climate change, carbon emissions, recycling, the production of ecological detergents and animal husbandry. It included activities aimed at enhancing mathematical knowledge, as well as artistic, sporting, and social activities. The study used both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The study group consisted of 30 students continuing their education through transport. Changes in students' attitudes towards mathematics, environmental awareness, environmental attitudes, mathematical motivation, and mathematical problem solving attitudes were investigated. Pre- and post-interviews, along with reflective diaries were utilized to gather students' opinions about the project process. By the end of the project, a significant difference was observed in favour of the post-test results for the study sub-dimension of students' attitudes towards mathematics scores and the knowledge sub-dimension of their awareness towards environmental problems scores. After the project, it was found that students were able to more easily establish the relationship between environmental problems and eco-mathematics, that the project had a positive impact on them, and that they enjoyed participating in it.