Non-formal education in biology through the eyes of students, teachers and parents

The article presents the results of a survey among students, teachers and parents on non-formal educational activities. The sample size included 80 students between the ages of 12 – 14, participants in summer academies for children, 100 teachers and 69 parents. The main diagnostic tool is a survey of five questions - four with closed and one question with open answers. The survey results were processed statistically, using descriptive statistics, Fisher's parametric test and Kruskal Wallis's non-parametric test. Most of the respondees (students, teachers and parents) believe that the Middle school curriculum in Science (V – VI grade) and Biology and Health Education (VII grade) affects career choice. Students are not sure, while parents are doubtful, that in formal education one can acquire enough knowledge and skills, applicable to the real professional life. The results of the research indicate that non-formal educational initiatives are rare at the schools of the repondees (students, parents and teachers).