Aprendizaje científico e innovación en el proyecto escolar de microbiología Mar con-Ciencia

Pilar García-Jiménez; Milagros Rico Santos

doi:10.55777/b50e5k82

Authors

Pilar García-Jiménez Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, España https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4732-0381
Milagros Rico Santos Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, España https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2711-8952

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55777/b50e5k82

Keywords:

Experiential learning, active learning methodologies, teacher training, critical thinking, microbiology

Abstract

To bring microbiology closer to secondary education students, a comprehensive educational proposal was designed that combined the development of specialized materials, a digital support platform, and a teacher training program to ensure effective implementation. The proposal was subsequently implemented over a full academic year in 20 schools through project-based learning (PBL), cooperative work, and experiential learning activities. Throughout the learning pathway, students analyzed real environmental issues, conducted field sampling, interpreted microbiological data, disseminated their results publicly, and organized their work through role-based collaboration, among other activities. Learning outcomes were assessed using pre- and post-experience questionnaires, which revealed a significant improvement in content understanding, a notable increase in the number of students achieving the highest performance levels, and enhanced ability to apply the scientific method to real-life situations. Feedback from both teachers and students concluded that the experience fosters responsibility, autonomy, scientific communication skills, and a deeper engagement with the phenomena studied. This project demonstrates that active methodologies promote lasting learning and sustained engagement with science and the environment.

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Author Biographies

Pilar García-Jiménez, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, España

She holds a Bachelor’s degree and a PhD in Marine Sciences from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC). Her doctoral thesis focused on the reproduction of red algae. She is an Associate Professor at ULPGC, teaching in the undergraduate programs in Marine Sciences, Biotechnology, and Chemical Engineering. Her research focuses on marine plant physiology, the biotechnology of algae and marine phanerogams, and environmental microbiology. She has served as Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Marine Sciences at ULPGC.
Milagros Rico Santos, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, España

Bachelor’s degree and a PhD in Chemical Sciences from the University of La Laguna. Her doctoral thesis focused on the synthesis of cross-linked polyethers with anti-tumour activity. She is a Senior Lecturer at the ULPGC, where she teaches on the undergraduate degree programmes in Marine Sciences, Biotechnology and Chemical Engineering. Her research focuses on the characterisation of dissolved organic matter in the sea and its role in regulating the biogeochemical cycles of trace metals. She has held various quality management posts at the university: Vice-Rector and Director of Quality at the ULPGC, and Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Marine Sciences.

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