Creative challenge to stimulate student engagement in natural science education in distance learning

Abstract

This article describes a study conducted in the discipline of “science education in nature”, offered 100% in the distance learning mode, for undergraduate students in biological sciences and pedagogy. The aim was to develop a challenge that would stimulate students creativity and engagement. Through the virtual learning platform, students exchanged information and collaborated with each other. The challenge resulted in a significant increase in student engagement and facilitated the connection between theory and practice. The findings highlight the importance of strategies that promote engagement in distance learning, especially in the discipline in which it was applied. The challenge-based approach stimulates creativity, critical thinking, and the development of essential skills for teacher education in this field.