Thematic Analysis of Postgraduate Theses on Science Education Programs Between 2015 and 2025

Abstract

In this study, the research trends of postgraduate theses conducted in the field of science education curricula in Turkey between 2015 and 2025 were examined. A total of 29 postgraduate theses (master’s and doctoral) related to science education curricula were evaluated using the document analysis method. The study addressed key components such as the type of theses, year of publication, research topic, research model used, sample/study group, and data collection tools. Findings revealed that most theses focused on topics such as general evaluation of science education curricula, technology integration, skill and competency development, thematic modules, and assessment and evaluation. Methodologically, qualitative research methods were predominant, with mixed methods being increasingly preferred. The university-based analysis showed that the theses were distributed across various universities, with Marmara University contributing the highest number (4 theses). It was also determined that teachers were the predominant participants in the study groups, and multiple data collection tools such as interviews, questionnaires, and document analysis were employed. In terms of data analysis, descriptive techniques and content analysis were frequently used. As a result, it was suggested that experimental models, qualitative, and mixed methods should be more frequently utilized in the field; study groups should be diversified to include different stakeholders; research topics should be selected to be current and original; and data collection and analysis processes should be diversified and detailed. Furthermore, increasing comparative studies with articles and papers on similar topics would contribute to the development of the field.