Microorganisms and hygiene habits. Longitudinal study in the early Primary Education courses

The study analyzes pupils' (6 - 8 years old) ideas about microorganisms and basic body hygiene. Also, it contrasts the learning, right finish and two months later, following two different teaching methods: classic vs. more practical. It values, as well, teacher workload in each proposal. Data was gathered through drawings and questionnaires to children and parents. The results show a limited and negative conception about microorganisms, although in general they have acceptable hygiene habits. Both interventions improve students' knowledge in both postests, but no differences regarding hygiene habits, in number, although families find great changes in the way of doing teeth and hands washing. However, no differences between both teaching methods have been found, while the teacher workload was 75% superior in the experimental method.