WOS: 000358187500014The purpose of this study is to develop computer-assisted instruction (CAI) material about fossil fuels based on constructivist learning theory and evaluate its effectiveness. The study was conducted via quasi-experimental research design. The sample of the study consisted of 46 third grade pre-service science teachers (PSTs) studying in Elementary Science Teaching Department and taking 'Special Topics in Chemistry' course. In the light of findings obtained, while the participants in the experimental group explain fossil fuels mentioning their formation process, the participants in the control group define fossil fuels as source of energy or fuel/kind of fuel. The PSTs who explained that fossil fuels were used as the source of energy stated that they used fossil fuels mainly for heating and transportation. The PSTs stated that using fossil fuels caused air/environmental pollution, acid rains, depletion of ozone layer, and global warming and they made some suggestions in order to prevent the occurrence of these problems. There is a difference between the PSTs pre-test and post-test results regarding their definitions of fossil fuels, how to use them as the source of energy and their effects on environment. It can be stated that awareness was developed about the use of fossil fuels in favour of experimental group.Giresun UniversityGiresun University [EGT-BAP-A-220413-60]This study is apart of the scientific research project (EGT-BAP-A-220413-60) named 'Developing, Applying and Evaluating Computer Assisted Instruction Materials Related to Energy Sources' which was supported by the Unit of Scientific Research Projects from Giresun University
