Kann Experimentieren in der Schule bilden?

Experimentation is an integral element of both German and international science curricula and standards. Despite its time- and resource-demanding character, its legitimacy is hardly ever doubted. The article aims to demonstrate the interrelations that science experiments in schools have with a theory of Bildung by juxtaposing the theories of Litt and Klafki with current concepts of competence. It will be shown that experimentation in schools bares categorically formative potential, which is manifest in acquiring a specific perspective on the world that entails both self-determination and responsibility. Personally formative aspects of experimentation complement competence-based legitimacy and might be capitalized on in schools to achieve a more voluntary commitment from students.