E-Classroom and Do-It Yourself Materials in Teaching Science and Health and its Effect on the Quarterly Grade of Pupils of San Gabriel 1 Elementary School: Basis for Action Plan

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In this rapidly changing economy, Science is one of the bases for almost every technical competence in the modern marketplace. In the Philippines, the result of the National Achievement Test shows low learning in the field of Science. The results of the 2003 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) show that among 45 countries participated in the TIMSS for six-grade students, the Philippines ranked 42nd in Science. The score was more than 100 points lower than Malaysia and more than 200 points lower than Singapore. It has been shown that students have not mastered the skills ranging from understanding, internalizing data and information, explain a scientific theory, and be able to do a calculation to solve scientific problems.

METHODS

The quasi-experimental research design was used to find the most effective approach in teaching Science and Health for Grade 6 pupils. Two methods of teaching: a conventional approach for the control group and communication technology-assisted instruction for the experimental group. Two sections are both heterogeneous based on their general point average and profile of the respondents.

RESULTS

The result of the 3rd Quarterly grade showed a 3.62 difference between the means of the experimental and the control group. The computed T-test value is 11.77 which was greater than the critical value of 2.01 at 0.05 level of significance. Learners who underwent the intervention of exposing to E-Classroom and Do It Yourself Materials tend to get higher mean as a manifestation of better academic performance in science and health, which means the effectiveness of teaching Science and Health 6 using E-Classroom and Do It Yourself Material has a big effect on pupils' achievement.

DISCUSSIONS

The results recommend that pupils should be trained to develop their critical thinking by doing simulations through the use of manipulative materials and technology, the teacher should possess a basic knowledge about using computers, internet, and other tools in E-classroom to enhance pupils' knowledge of using technology and exhibit the capacity to perform better in science. Enrichment lessons and remediation classes must be undertaken to utilize the expertise of science teachers to improve the performance of the pupils. The teacher should develop lessons suited to the needs and interests of the pupils and monitoring of their achievement must be done to keep track of pupil’s performance.