Improving students’ performance and conceptual understanding of heat transfer using demonstration method

Abstract

One of the physics topics difficult to understand among students at senior high schools (SHSs) is heat transfer. Various reasons have been advanced in an attempt to rationalize this difficulty. This study through an action research design was conducted to improve students’ performance and conceptual understanding of heat transfer at Oti Boateng Senior High School, Koforidua. The instruments used for the study were questionnaires, pre- and post-test. The study identified rote learning, inadequate understanding of concepts among others as the cause of difficulty in problem solving among students. The study revealed that although there are different methods of teaching, the efficacy of the demonstration method cannot be downplayed considering its role in improving students’ academic performance. The study concluded that for effective teaching and learning of heat transfer at SHS, it is important for teachers to employ the demonstration method in their teaching.