The effect of computer based instruction on junior high school pupils’ misconception on diffusion

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of Computer Based Instruction (CBI) on Junior High School (JHS) pupils’ misconceptions on diffusion in Nkawkaw Municipality in the Eastern Region. A JHS 3 class consisting of 23 pupils was selected for the study. A quasi experimental design was used. Pretest was used to identify the pupils’ misconceptions about diffusion. The pupils had misconceptions although, based on their academic scheme of work, conventional teaching approach had previously been used to them teach diffusion. After the treatment, a post test was conducted and the results showed that the pupils performed better since the misconceptions were removed .The study was guided by a null hypothesis and based on this; Paired sample T. test was used to analyze a statistical equivalence of the pupils’ pretest and posttests scores. The results indicated that CBI has effect on the JHS pupils’ misconceptions on diffusion.The main conclusion reached was that; Junior High School pupils hold misconceptions on diffusion and CBI is effective on dispelling such misconceptions. And so, by using CBI with a content which addresses the misconceptions, the pupils will have the opportunity to acquire an understanding which will help them to remove the inherent misconceptions. It was recommended that: here is the need to use CBI in the teaching of science concepts throughout the country so that misconceptions can be prevented; however, if misconceptions are identified among pupils, CBI should be used to remedy them. Also, science teachers and teachers of other subject areas should be trained in the development of CBI materials so that they can adapt existing materials to teach science concepts and finally, pupils should be given more time to learn Information and Communication Technology (ICT) so that the CBI can be used for them easily.