The functioning of context-based physics instruction in higher education


Tural G.

Asia-Pacific Forum on Science Learning and Teaching, cilt.14, sa.1, 2013 (Scopus) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 14 Sayı: 1
  • Basım Tarihi: 2013
  • Dergi Adı: Asia-Pacific Forum on Science Learning and Teaching
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Academic achievement, context-based instruction, higher education, physics
  • Ondokuz Mayıs Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

The effects of the context-based approach have been discussed in educational settings as one of the innovative instructional approaches. Many countries throughout the world have implemented context-based physics projects or programs to make physics more relevant to students' lives. This paper examined the effects of context-based physics instruction on undergraduate students' achievement compared to traditional physics instruction at a university. Three topics were utilized: potential energy, kinetic energy, and rotational kinetic energy. Also, it was determined the effect of context-based physics instruction about students' attitudes towards physics. And, it was investigated what students think they have gained with context-based physics instruction. The present study has both qualitative and quantitative dimensions in terms of using achievement test and the interview. The sample of this study consists of second year undergraduate students of Primary School Teaching Program. The findings from this study show the context based approach application on the subjects created no significant effect on students' exam scores. However, students' attitudes were positive. © 2013 HKIEd APFSLT.