Assessment of science process skills among students during chemistry practical activities

Abstract

The study examined the assessment of science process skills (SPS) in O-level students during chemistry practical activities in order to determine their participation in the practical activities through direct involvement and the level of their ability in manipulation, interpretation and communication of scientific information. A study was conducted in Mbarara district, Western Uganda, between February 2017 and November 2018. The study was guided by three objectives; i. The ability of students to competently manipulate the apparatus. ii. The ability of students to interpret the finding of the practicals activities. iii. The ability of students to communicate scientific findings. The study was both qualitative and quantitative guided by a cross-sectional survey design involving a number of 149 students selected from 10 schools using random sampling technique. Data was collected using a questionnaire, interview guide and observational checklist on the students of chemistry in S.3 and S4. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version-16 of windows. Statistical methods like chi-square were employed The study findings were; students are good at manipulation of apparatus, but lacking some skills of interpretation and their ability to communicate scientific findings. However, sex of students is totally independent of the scientific findings. It was concluded that, science process skills (SPS) are important science skills which must be acquired by every person in the science field in order to enforce and reinforce learning. However, the skills such as manipulation of apparatus, interpretation of the scientific findings and communication of scientific information still need to be upheld and reinforced by the instructors of education in such areas majorly during the practical activities. From the conclusion; it was recommended that the Ministry of Education and Sports in conjugation with the other Education bodies; sit on board and forge ways to uplift the standards of SPS. This could be achieved by creating awareness of the program and equipping the teachers with the necessary materials. This research has been designed in such a way to be a guided influence on all the stakeholders of education.