Exploring the use of a scratch software game on the performance of students on Electronic Configuration and Hybridization.

Abstract

This study explored the use of a Scratch software game on the performance of Preservice science teachers on the concepts of electronic configuration of atoms and hybridizations. An action research approach was adopted for the study. The study targeted all 85 Pre-service science teachers (level 200 and 300) in Bagabaga College of Education (BACE)-Ghana. However, only level 200 Pre-service science teachers were accessible. A sample size of forty (40) Pre-service science teachers were purposively sampled. The one-group, Pre-test, Post-test, and delayed-Post-test design was employed to assess participants’ conceptual difficulties before, immediately after, and two (2) weeks after the intervention. Test items covered three learning domains: Knowledge, Comprehension, and Application. Semi-structured interviews were employed as a follow-up to the Pre-test to find out the cause of participants’ conceptual difficulties. Observation schedule was also used to assess their interest and level of participation in each activity during the intervention. Questionnaire sought participants' perspectives on the Scratch software game's impact on their performance and corroborating the observational data. Data were analysed on the appropriateness of scientific reasoning. Findings showed that the use of the Scratch software game in teaching the electronic configuration of atoms and hybridization provided a learning environment where participants were given opportunity to visualise and apply concepts through Digital Game-based activities improved their performance on these two concepts. Again, the study revealed a positive influence on participants' engagement, interests, and attitudes towards the Scratch software game. Moreover, significant improvements in participants' performance, evidenced by the Post-test results, were sustained even two weeks later. It is recommended that chemistry teachers in the school should be trained to use the Scratch software game in making their lessons interesting, and interactive in order to enhance participants’ learning experiences.