The impact of science fiction media on student interest and learning

Abstract

The purpose of this research project was to determine if the use of science fiction media in the classroom can impact student learning and interest in science. Students were shown clips from various science fiction films such as Gattaca and Spider-Man throughout each unit. The class then discussed different aspects of the plot, how the movies used science, and how science concepts played a role in the movies. Student learning was gauged by the assessments in each unit while student interest in science was assessed through the Science Subject Survey and the Post-Treatment Interview.