Scientific abilities and their assessment applying SMELT Physical Study of the MatEriaL erupTing from mud volcanoes

Abstract Preparing the students for the demands of the 21 century employment market requires training them to assemble scientific knowledge and to approach complex problems in the same way that scientists do. SMELT, the Physical S tudy of the M at E ria L erup T ing from mud volcanoes, is an assessment instrument for experimental activity in physics. The paper presents the assessment objectives, table of specifications, statement and answer sheet of the experimental problem, as well as evidence of the assessment tool and interpretation of the results obtained by the competitors. The analysis of the results led to conclusions on the scientific abilities of students selected in the Olympic team.