A Research Analysis to Increase STEM Proficiency Among Nigerian Students
In recognition of the impact science and technology education has on national development, the Federal government of Nigeria placed increased emphasis on teaching the foundations of science and technology in primary education. Beyond the normal rudimentary science and math topics taught, the program encourages young people to be creative, innovative, adaptable and employ critical thinking skills.
Despite the increased attention on science and technology education in Nigeria, student achievement was not increasing. From 2012 to 2016 one Nigerian state had only one year in which the average science and technology score on a country-wide exam was above 50%. Several studies attributed poor teaching techniques to the students’ underachievement.
In 2020, an international council published a report to examine the effectiveness of two teaching methods for boosting engagement and critical thinking in middle school science with the aim of increasing overall science and technology proficiency across Nigeria. The teaching methods examined in the study are Graphical Organizers (GO) and Experiential Learning (EL). The GO method uses drawn visuals to help students organize and structure information and assist in relating concepts to like concepts. The EL method is described as in-person experiences and hands-on classroom activities. Both methods involve active student participation.
Findings:
The results were clear that both Graphical Organizers and Experiential Learning significantly improved students' critical thinking skills and increased learning acquisition. Researchers note that the Experiential Learning technique seemed to motivate students and piqued their interest in course material. However, the GO method was slightly better at increasing students’ critical thinking skills, a finding that researchers attributed to its spatial representation of concepts helping students memorize, breakdown and compare tough concepts.
Overall, this study shows the importance of implementing active learning techniques in science and technology classrooms. Students who learned habitat and ecology using either Graphical Organizers or Experiential Learning techniques showed higher knowledge acquisition, improved critical thinking skills, and were overall more engaged with their coursework.
Why These Findings Matter:
Research consistently shows that experiential learning experiences are a game-changer for students. These hands-on activities go beyond rote memorization, sparking increased engagement and achievement. By actively participating in experiences, students develop a genuine love of learning that extends far beyond the classroom walls.
The magic lies in the connection. Experiential learning bridges the gap between abstract concepts and real-world scenarios, making information meaningful and memorable. Students don't just learn facts; they see them come alive and understand their practical applications.
This approach doesn't stop at engagement. Experiential learning fosters the development of crucial critical thinking skills. Through analysis, problem-solving, and drawing connections between experiences and concepts, students gain the tools they need to navigate the complexities of our ever-evolving world.
In essence, experiential learning isn't just about acquiring information; it's about equipping students to use it effectively. This prepares them to succeed in their academic pursuits and thrive in the dynamic 21st century environment.
Takeaways for Educators:
Experiential Learning is a powerful method that improves students’ long-term achievement.
Educators should incorporate active learning strategies into their science and technology curriculum to promote student engagement and critical thinking while boosting student achievement.
Graphical Organizers may be particularly beneficial for visual learners.
Feedback is a crucial element in active learning techniques. Feedback can promote dialogue and deeper understanding.
Study Methods:
Both experimental groups were taught the same habitat and ecology unit for five consecutive weeks. Experimental I group was taught using GO learning techniques while Experimental II group was taught using EL techniques. There was no control group for this study. Student achievement was assessed in a pre- and post- study test that included 15 multiple choice questions and 4 essay-style questions. Students in Experimental groups I and II remained in the same classroom and with the same teacher as before the study began. It is important to note that feedback on student achievement was given throughout the study period to both the parents and the students in both experimental groups.
Read the full report here.
How Immersive VR Can Help You Facilitate Active Learning
Immersive Virtual Reality (VR) technology is revolutionizing how teachers can engage students in active learning. VR transcends textbooks, transporting students to the heart of historical events, the depths of the ocean, or even the inside of an atom. This opens doors to experiences that would be too costly, dangerous, or simply impossible to replicate in the real world.
VR isn't just about virtual vacations. Students can witness historical events unfold, observe ecosystems evolve over millennia, or conduct virtual experiments without risk. This allows them to learn from their mistakes in a safe environment and see the long-term consequences of actions in a condensed timeframe.
Furthermore, VR allows students to manipulate objects too small for the naked eye, like atoms or cells, providing an unparalleled view of their function. This fosters a deeper understanding of complex scientific concepts and empowers students to truly engage with the material.
By incorporating VR into their lesson plans, teachers can transform passive learning into active exploration, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning that extends far beyond the classroom.
Are you ready to dive into experiential learning? Contact us today to learn more about incorporating VR into your classroom.
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