UK Science Teachers Increasingly Rely on Video Demos Due to Lack of Funding

Science teachers in UK schools are increasingly turning to video demonstrations instead of hands-on practical work for their students, according to a recent report by the Gatsby Foundation. The shift is primarily attributed to a lack of funding and resources for science education.

The report found that in 2024, only 26% of GCSE students engaged in hands-on practical work at least once every two weeks, a significant drop from 44% in 2016 and 37% in 2019. Meanwhile, the use of video demonstrations has risen from 39% in 2016 to 46% in 2024. Teacher-led demonstrations have also seen a decline, from 47% in 2016 to 32% in 2024.

The report reveals that the most common form of exposure to practical science for students in years 7 to 11 is now through video, with 49% reporting watching a video of a practical at least once a fortnight. In comparison, 44% watch a teacher demonstration, and only 38% have the opportunity to perform hands-on practical work themselves.

Why this matters: The decline in hands-on practical science education in UK schools raises concerns about the quality and effectiveness of science learning for students. Practical experience is critical for developing scientific skills, understanding, and engagement, and a lack of such opportunities may have long-term implications for the UK's scientific workforce and innovation.

The Gatsby Foundation's report functions as a wake-up call for policymakers and education authorities to address the funding and resource challenges faced by science departments in UK schools. Without adequate support, the trend towards video demonstrations over hands-on practical work is likely to continue, potentially impacting the scientific literacy and skills of future generations.

Key Takeaways

• UK science teachers increasingly use video demos over hands-on practicals
• GCSE students doing hands-on practicals dropped from 44% in 2016 to 26% in 2024
• Video demos rose from 39% in 2016 to 46% in 2024, teacher demos declined
• 49% of students watch practical videos, 44% see teacher demos, 38% do hands-on
• Decline in hands-on science raises concerns about scientific skills and workforce