Department of Science Education

Greetings, I'm Özge ŞİMŞEK, a fourth-year student in the Science Teaching Department, currently in my final year at Balıkesir University. At the age of twenty-two, I am pursuing a four-year undergraduate program in science teaching. Our department is dedicated to training aspiring teachers who possess a strong foundation in scientific knowledge, exhibit curiosity, stay updated with the latest developments, and uphold the principles and reforms established by Atatürk.
Our primary goal is to equip teacher candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in secondary school settings. Throughout the program, we offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes essential subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, as well as additional courses in astronomy and earth science. To enhance practical learning, our students benefit from the state-of-the-art science laboratory, where we conduct hands-on experiments and practical lessons.
As part of our program, we provide internship opportunities in the final year. These internships, taking place in both the fall and spring semesters, span a total of 24 weeks, with each semester consisting of a 12-week placement. Students have the option to complete their internships in public or private schools. Beyond traditional educational institutions, science teachers can further develop their careers by engaging in science and art centers, science history museums, planetariums, and research projects initiated by TÜBİTAK (Turkish Scientific and Technical Research Council).
My personal motivation for choosing this department stems from my passion for teaching and my genuine love for science. I find great joy in sharing knowledge and staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field. By choosing this department, I recognized that it encompasses the fundamental aspects of effective teaching. Moreover, Balıkesir University appealed to me due to its affiliation with the esteemed Necatibey Faculty of Education, renowned for its commitment to academic growth, appreciation for educators, and distinct cultural heritage. This institution holds the distinction of being the first teacher's school, historically known as Karesi Darül-Muallimin, with a rich legacy in teacher training that predates the establishment of the republic.
While pursuing my studies in the department, I extensively utilized the library, particularly during the initial years when field courses were quite intensive. The library, situated in the NEF (Necatibey Faculty of Education) garden, boasts an impressive collection of resources and has been an invaluable asset for me. Moreover, NEF embraces a culture of having its own garden and canteen, making it a desirable place for students to socialize and spend time. Whether or not you are a student of Balıkesir University Necatibey Faculty of Education, you would undoubtedly wish to enjoy the garden ambiance. This vibrant social atmosphere is also attributed to its central location in Balıkesir, which provides convenient transportation options and easy accessibility to various places. Additionally, within the NEF garden, we have a social health institution where a doctor, nurse, and dentist are available to cater to the health needs of every student enrolled at Balıkesir University.
Upon graduation, my aim is to secure a position in public institutions by obtaining a satisfactory score in the KPSS (Public Personnel Selection Examination). Sustaining my teaching career holds utmost importance to me. Furthermore, I have aspirations to advance in my professional journey by pursuing a master's degree. To choose this department and become part of the science teaching program, one needs to possess patience and commitment. As a pre-service teacher, the realization of the immense responsibility involved becomes even more apparent in the third and fourth years. Patience, classroom management skills, diligence, and a curious research mindset are all essential qualities for a prospective science teacher. If you possess these characteristics, along with being talkative, sociable, and eager to ask questions, you can excel in the science teaching department and fulfill your role effectively. I extend my best wishes to my friends who will be taking the university exam. We warmly welcome you to Balıkesir University.