Familiarization on Handling Science Apparatus (Project Fohsa)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Teaching science involves introducing pupils to the ways of communicating, thinking and manipulating science tools. Practical exercises in using science equipment/apparatus is an essential factor for the learners to acquire the knowledge and skills. The results of periodical tests on the percentage of correct responses per learning competency revealed that 55% of the learners can manipulate the science apparatus and equipment. Based on the data, the researcher identified that the competency/skill needed to use science equipment/apparatus should be given emphasis. The purpose of this project is to gather information on how to familiarize the learners to effectively use the equipment.

METHODS

The descriptive method was used for this study. Thirty-nine (39) Grade V pupils during SY 17-18, and parents were randomly selected as respondents. In addition, their science teachers were also selected as respondents. Respondents answered questionnaires that focused on the manipulation of science apparatus. The following steps were followed: 1) Walk the process in the Current and Future SIPOC; 2) Root cause analysis; 3) Identified Priority Improvement Areas; 4) Developed Solutions; 4) Piloted the solution; 6) Rolled out the solution on prelaunch, launch and after launch and 7) Monitored and evaluated the process and the result.

RESULTS

Analysis of the results showed a 19% marked improvement in the performance level (from 55% to 74%) on the manipulation of science apparatus of Grade V pupils SY 2017-2018 during school year 2018-2019. The following process steps must be followed for the succeeding year's implementation of the project: 1) Preparation of Science apparatus for manipulation; 2) Hands-on of the prepared Science apparatus; 3) Evaluation of the pupils' manipulation, 4) Inventory of the Science Equipment and 5) Monitoring and evaluation of the process and achievement of the pupils. Strict implementation of this project will be very beneficial to our pupils' performance and achievement level. The pupils, science teachers, school property custodian and school head are the key personnel needed for the success of this project implementation.

DISCUSSIONS

The results demonstrated the hands-on monitoring and evaluation of the process, implementation and the performance of achievement the pupils' performance level. The teacher plays a vital role in this There should be constant monitoring and evaluation to track students’ performance. greatly affects the achievement level of the pupils.