The influence of computer simulation instructional methods on students’ performance in chemical bonding

Abstract

Growth to a worldwide scale in the 21st century has ensued innovative ways of teaching and learning. The traditional method of teaching and learning of science is fast losing its acceptance and impact in the educational sector. Computers have become increasingly important among science educators as they play important roles during the instruction of students in the science classroom. To demonstrate conditions of conceptual change in science learning, simulation-based environments are deemed to be appropriate. This study therefore sought to investigate the influence of Computer Simulation Instructional methods on Students’ performance in Chemical Bonding using quasi-experimental research approach. The study was delimited to 180 second-year science students at the SHS level from six schools in Ashanti Region. The main instruments used were researcher-created Students’ Knowledge of Chemical Bonding Test (SKCBT) and Chemical Bonding Achievement Test (CBAT), supported with Pre-test Students Questionnaire. The tests and the questionnaire were subjected to content validation and reliability test. Data collected were analysed using SPSS Version 20 and Microsoft Excel. The study revealed a significant (p<0.05) improvement in students’ performance and cognitive understanding with the intervention. This was evident in the mean score of the experimental group, which increased from 18.27 (±2.62) to 24.24 (±2.38) and the mean difference was found to be significant (p-value<0.05). The degree of significant improvement was found to be 19.9%. There was no gender disparity in the performance of students. Notwithstanding the general abstractness of chemical bonding, majority of students were found to have interest in the subject. It is therefore recommended that curriculum innovation should be done to incorporate computer-assisted instruction in the science curriculum at the SHS level. Funds should also be made available for the purchase of such resources and the training of teachers in its usage.