Title: The Science of Science Communication: Science Identity Development from Chemistry Classrooms to Scientific Communities
Abstract: How young people see themselves as individuals with a science identity profoundly affects their participation, engagement, and ability to act in scientific contexts—an idea also highlighted in the PISA 2025 framework. This keynote examines the science of science communication as a key mechanism for developing science identity in chemistry education, particularly in the context of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. Drawing on research in chemistry education, science communication, and science capital, the talk explores how narratives, AI-enhanced tools, classroom practices, and learning environments shape learners’ science identity. By connecting chemistry classrooms with broader scientific communities, the keynote highlights how science communication can support meaningful engagement, informed decision-making, and inclusive, identity-affirming chemistry education across formal, informal, and non-formal settings.
Short Biography
Gultekin Cakmakci received his BSc in Chemical Engineering from Ankara University. After a brief period working in industry, he shifted his career toward research and education. He earned an MSc in Science Education from the University of York and a PhD in Science Education from the University of Leeds (UK). He received a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship to conduct his research at Stanford University in 2011-2012.
He is a Professor of Science Education at Hacettepe University. His research focuses on design thinking, engineering education, public engagement with science, and the design, implementation, and evaluation of STEM instruction. He has been involved in several national and international projects, including European Commission Horizon Europe and FP7 initiatives. Among other contributions, he helped develop the Turkish Science Curriculum, which was implemented nationwide between 2017 and 2023.
Gultekin Cakmakci has been elected a life member of the PCST Network. PCST awards honorary life membership to individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the international science communication community. He served as a board member of the European Science Education Research Association (ESERA) from 2021 to 2023 and is currently a board member of the Journal of Research in STEM Education and director of the STEM & Makers Fest/Expo. He also served as Deputy Chair of the Research & Innovation Coordination Board at Hacettepe University from 2023 to 2025.