Effectiveness ofProject SIM as a Localized Science Learning Intervention in Improving the Academic Performance of Grade 7 Students of Kaytitinga National High School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In the Science Curriculum Guide provided by the Department of Education for the K to 12 Program, the topic about familiarization of laboratory equipment is no longer included in the secondary level. This is in contrast with the old curriculum where the said topic serves as introductory science lesson in every level. As a result, the students find it hard to use the equipment that they are not familiar with, hence, poor skill in performing laboratory experiments which could result to lower academic performance.

METHODS

A pilot pretest was administered to the students of Kaytitinga National High School before the study. Every month from June to October 2018, the researcher exposed the Grade 7students to the displays of the Science Interactive Museum (SIM). During each visit, the students have the opportunity to manipulate the tools and set ups related to their lessons in Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Earth Science.

After the visits in the SIM, the students were administered with posttest. The scores of each student recorded and underwent statistical treatment to determine whether there were significant differences on their mean scores in the pretest and posttest.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in the result of pretest and posttest of students exposed to Project SIM. All of the sections in Grade 7 got an increase in their posttest scores. A survey among the respondents also revealed that the students had better perception in Science after they were exposed to SIM and were given chance to manipulate set ups and equipment.

DISCUSSIONS

In the light of the findings, the researcher concluded that all the groups had an increase in their academic performance after being exposed to monthly visits in the Science Interactive Museum. The Project SIM is an effective intervention tool in teaching science among the students of Kaytitinga National High School. Although it is not included in the Curriculum Guide, familiarization of laboratory tools and equipment is advised to help the students master the competency-based skill. Students get more familiar with the laboratory tools and equipment if they have the opportunity to manipulate them rather than just look at them in displays. The teacher can also provide other set ups aside from common laboratory tools and equipment for the students to master not just the names and parts but also the functions of each equipment.