Activities on reflection of light based on low-cost materials at eighth grade

Abstract

Abstract Studying science through hands-on activities within the context of teaching and learning using local environments and resources has been recognized as a fundamental prerequisite of school curriculum in many developing countries, including Thailand. Accordingly, we are interested in implementing such a concept in designing science teaching and learning for middle school students that emphasizes student participation in the provision of materials and equipment for scientific activities. The purposes of this study are to design hands-on activities for eighth grade students on the topic of light reflection using low-cost materials, and then to examine the results after they are implemented. The experimental group consisted of 30 eighth grade students who were chosen at random in one room. The instruments used in the experiment were two types of achievement tests that were administered as pretests and posttests on the topics of light reflection on smooth and curved surfaces. The paired sample t-test was performed after the collection of data to determine students’ conceptual understanding. Our result displays a highly significant difference (p <.01) between the pretest score (39.7%) and posttest score (83.3%), indicating that students actively participated in hands-on activities and learned light reflection knowledge and skills through interaction and discussion with their classmates. We highlight the advantages of our study for science teachers in rural schools in ensuring students develop 21st Century Skills, which is an important part of STEM education.