The Power of Inquiry-Based Chemical Change Lesson in Under-Resourced Classrooms: Perspectives of Grade 10 Learners

Nkosinathi Willy  Nkosi; Abraham  Motlhabane

doi:10.14712/18047106.4567

Vol. 15 No. 2 (2024): Scientia in educatione Research Reports

The Power of Inquiry-Based Chemical Change Lesson in Under-Resourced Classrooms

Perspectives of Grade 10 Learners

Nkosinathi Willy Nkosi, ¹ Abraham Motlhabane, ¹

Unisa

DOI: https://doi.org/10.14712/18047106.4567

How to Cite

Nkosi, N. W., & Motlhabane, A. (2024). The Power of Inquiry-Based Chemical Change Lesson in Under-Resourced Classrooms: Perspectives of Grade 10 Learners. Scientia in Educatione, 15(2), 29-38. https://doi.org/10.14712/18047106.4567

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Abstract

This qualitative study delves into the learner experience of inquiry-based lessons, uncovering the perceptions and insights of learners engaged in this pedagogical approach. Through focus group interviews, we gathered rich data that reveals a transformative learning environment characterized by active engagement, collaborative discourse, and autonomy. Learners embraced the opportunity to explore concepts independently, seeking clarification from peers and cultivating a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Notably, despite feeling unsupported by their teachers, learners perceived the limited teacher involvement as a liberating force, fostering independence and encouraging more extensive reading and peer discussion. Our findings resonate with existing research, underscoring the efficacy of inquiry-based learning in promoting learner-centeredness, critical thinking, and conceptual understanding. The study's outcomes have significant implications for science education, highlighting the need for a paradigmatic shift from traditional teacher-centric approaches to learner-centered inquiry-based methods that empower students to take ownership of their learning.

Keywords Inquiry-based lesson Perspectives Chemical change

References

Achurra, A., Uskola, A., & Zamalloa, T. (2024). Future teachers’ perceptions about their preparedness to teach science as inquiry. Education Sciences, 14(7), Article 700. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14070700 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Annisa, D., & Rohaeti, E. (2018). The effect of inquiry-based learning on students’ understanding of the chemical equilibrium concept. In AIP Conference Proceedings 2021(1). AIP Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5062823 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Antonio, R. P., & Prudente, M. S. (2024). Effects of inquiry-based approaches on students’ higher-order thinking skills in science: A meta-analysis. International Journal of Education in Mathematics, Science and Technology, 12(1), 251-281. https://doi.org/10.46328/ijemst.3216 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Arisujati, N. W., & Suweken, G. (2020). The influence of inquiry learning method aided by open ended worksheet towards quantitative reasoning and self-esteem. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 1503(1) 012009. https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/1503/1/012009 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Banchi, H., & Bell, R. (2008). The many levels of inquiry. Science and Children, 46(2), 26-29. https://www.jstor.org/stable/43174976 Search in Google Scholar
Clarke, V., & Braun, V. (2012). Using thematic analysis: Qualitative research in psychology. APA Books. Search in Google Scholar
Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2016). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches. Sage publications. Search in Google Scholar
Donkoh, S., & Amoakwah, A. (2024). The use and challenges of learner-centered pedagogy: Basic school teachers’ perspective. European Journal of Education and Pedagogy, 5(1), 66-71. https://doi.org/10.24018/ejedu.2024.5.1.774 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Gagne, R. M. (1963). The learning requirements for inquiry. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 1(2), 144–153. https://doi.org/10.1002/tea.3660010211 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Gormally, C., Brickman, P., Hallar, B., & Armstrong, N. (2009). Effects of inquiry-based learning on students’ science literacy skills and confidence. International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, 3(2), Article 16. https://doi.org/10.20429/ijsotl.2009.030216 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Gyampon, O. A., Aido, B., Nyagbblosmase, G. A., Kofi, M., & Amoako, S. K. (2020). Investigating the effect of 7E Learning Cycle Model of Inquiry-Based Instruction on students’ achievement in Science. Journal of Research and Method in Education, 10(5), 39-44. https://doi.org/10.9790/7388-1005013944 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Gyllenpalm, J., Rundgren, C. J., Lederman, J., & Lederman, N. (2021). Views about scientific inquiry: A study of students’ understanding of scientific inquiry in grade 7 and 12 in Sweden. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research, 66(2), 336–354. https://doi.org/10.1080/00313831.2020.1869080 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Hung, C. S., & Wu, H. K. (2023). High school science teachers’ assessment literacy for inquiry-based science instruction. International Journal of Science Education, 46(7), 621–642. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2023.2251657 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Jerrim, J., Oliver, M., & Sims, S. (2019). The relationship between inquiry-based teaching and students’ achievement. New evidence from a longitudinal PISA study in England. Learning and Instruction, 61, 35-44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.learninstruc.2020.101310 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Kazeni, M., & Mkhwanazi, N. (2021). Life sciences teachers’ understanding, perceptions and adoption of inquiry-based science education in selected South African high schools. Education and New Developments, 27. https://doi.org/10.36315/2021end006 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Kersting, M., Karlsen, S., Ødegaard, M., Olufsen, M., Kjærnsli, M., & Suhr Lunde, M. L. (2023). Studying the quality of inquiry-based teaching in science classrooms. A systematic video study of inquiry-based science teaching in primary and lower-secondary schools. International Journal of Science Education, 45(17), 1463–1484. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2023.2213386 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Khalaf, B. K., & Zin, Z. B M. (2018). Traditional and inquiry-based learning pedagogy: A systematic critical review. International Journal of Instruction, 11(4), 545-564. https://doi.org/10.12973/iji.2018.11434a Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Li, X., Zhang, Y., Yu, F., Zhang, X., Zhao, X., & Pi, Z. (2024). Do science teachers’ believes related to inquiry-based teaching affect students’ science process skills? Evidence from a multilevel model analysis. Disciplinary and Interdisciplinary Science Education Research, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s43031-023-00089-y Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Liu, Y., & Wang, J. (2022). The mediating–moderating model of inquiry-based learning and science self-efficacy: evidence from PISA 2015. International Journal of Science Education, 44(7), 1096–1119. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2022.2067364 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Love, B., Hodge, A., Corritore, C., & Ernst, D. C. (2015). Inquiry-based learning and the flipped classroom model. Primus, 25(8), 745-762. https://doi.org/10.1080/10511970.2015.1046005 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Lu, C., & So, W. W. M. (2023). Inquiry-based science teaching in English Medium Instruction science secondary classrooms: Teachers’ understanding and perceptions. Language and Education, 38(3), 401–417. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500782.2023.2221216 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Mamombe, C., Mathabathe, K. C., & Gaigher, E. (2020). The influence of an inquiry-based approach on grade four learners’ understanding of the particulate nature of matter in the Gaseous Phase: A case study. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 16(1), em1812. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/110391 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
McMillan, J. H., & Schumacher, S. (2010). Research in education: Evidence-based inquiry. Pearson. Search in Google Scholar
Mupira, P., & Ramnarain, U. (2018). The effect of inquiry‐based learning on the achievement goal‐orientation of grade 10 physical sciences learners at township schools in South Africa. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 55(6), 810-825. https://doi.org/10.1002/tea.21440 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
National Research Council. (2000). Inquiry and the National Education Standards: A guide for teaching and learning. The National Academies Press. Search in Google Scholar
Nicol, C., Gakuba, E., & Habinshuti, G. (2020). An overview of learning cycles in science inquiry-based instruction. African Journal of Educational Studies in Mathematics and Sciences, 16(2), 76-81. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajesms.v16i.2.5 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Ong, E. T., Govindasamy, D., Singh, C. K. S., Ibrahim, M. N., Wahab, N. A., Borhan, M. T., & Tho, S. W. (2021). The 5E inquiry learning model: Its effect on the learning of electricity among Malaysian students. Cakrawala Pendidikan, 40(1), 170-182. https://doi.org/10.21831/cp.v40i1.33415 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Penn, M., Ramnarain, U., Kazen, M., Dhurumraj, L., Mavuru, L., & Ramaila, S. (2021). South African primary school learners’ understanding about the nature of scientific inquiry. Education, 49, 263-274. https://doi.org/10.1080/03004279.2020.1854956 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Safkolam, R., Madahae, S., & Saleah, P. (2024). The effects of inquiry-based learning activities to understand the nature of science of science student teachers. International Journal of Instruction, 17(1), 479-496. https://doi.org/10.29333/iji.2024.17125a Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Schwab, J. (1966). The teaching of science. Harvard University Press. Search in Google Scholar
Sharpe, R., & Abrahams, I. (2019). Secondary school students’ attitudes to practical work in biology, chemistry and physics in England. Research in Science & Technological Education, 38(1), 84–104. https://doi.org/10.1080/02635143.2019.1597696 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Siphukhanyo, L., & Olawale, B. E. (2024). Chronicling the experiences of life sciences teachers and learners on the usage of enquiry-based learning in enhancing learners’ academic performance. Journal of Culture and Values in Education, 7(1), 19-36. https://doi.org/10.46303/jcve.2024.2 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Susilawati, S., Doyan, A., Artayasa, P., Soeprianto, H., & Harjono, A. (2020). Analysis of validation development science learning tools using guided inquiry model assisted by real media to improve the understanding concepts and science process skills of students. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 7(1), 41-44. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v7i1.473 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Tanaka, H. (2007). Discussion-oriented teaching methods and examples: discussion-oriented lessons for improving students' expressive skills. In M. Isoda, M. Stephens, Y. Ohara &T. Miyakawa (Eds.), Japanese Lesson Study in mathematics: Its impact, diversity and potential for educational improvement (pp. 102-111). World Scientific. https://doi.org/10.1142/9789812707475_0019 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
Toma, R. B. (2022). Confirmation and structured inquiry teaching: Does it improve students’ achievement motivations in school science?. Canadian Journal of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, 22(1), 28-41. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42330-022-00197-3 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar
van Uum, M. S. J., Verhoeff, R. P., & Peeters, M. (2016). Inquiry-based science education: Towards a pedagogical framework for primary school teachers. International Journal of Science Education, 38(3), 450–469. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2016.1147660 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

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[1] Achurra, A., Uskola, A., & Zamalloa, T. (2024). Future teachers’ perceptions about their preparedness to teach science as inquiry. Education Sciences, 14(7), Article 700. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14070700 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[2] Annisa, D., & Rohaeti, E. (2018). The effect of inquiry-based learning on students’ understanding of the chemical equilibrium concept. In AIP Conference Proceedings 2021(1). AIP Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5062823 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[3] Antonio, R. P., & Prudente, M. S. (2024). Effects of inquiry-based approaches on students’ higher-order thinking skills in science: A meta-analysis. International Journal of Education in Mathematics, Science and Technology, 12(1), 251-281. https://doi.org/10.46328/ijemst.3216 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[4] Arisujati, N. W., & Suweken, G. (2020). The influence of inquiry learning method aided by open ended worksheet towards quantitative reasoning and self-esteem. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 1503(1) 012009. https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/1503/1/012009 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[5] Banchi, H., & Bell, R. (2008). The many levels of inquiry. Science and Children, 46(2), 26-29. https://www.jstor.org/stable/43174976 Search in Google Scholar

[6] Clarke, V., & Braun, V. (2012). Using thematic analysis: Qualitative research in psychology. APA Books. Search in Google Scholar

[7] Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2016). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches. Sage publications. Search in Google Scholar

[8] Donkoh, S., & Amoakwah, A. (2024). The use and challenges of learner-centered pedagogy: Basic school teachers’ perspective. European Journal of Education and Pedagogy, 5(1), 66-71. https://doi.org/10.24018/ejedu.2024.5.1.774 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[9] Gagne, R. M. (1963). The learning requirements for inquiry. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 1(2), 144–153. https://doi.org/10.1002/tea.3660010211 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[10] Gormally, C., Brickman, P., Hallar, B., & Armstrong, N. (2009). Effects of inquiry-based learning on students’ science literacy skills and confidence. International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, 3(2), Article 16. https://doi.org/10.20429/ijsotl.2009.030216 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[11] Gyampon, O. A., Aido, B., Nyagbblosmase, G. A., Kofi, M., & Amoako, S. K. (2020). Investigating the effect of 7E Learning Cycle Model of Inquiry-Based Instruction on students’ achievement in Science. Journal of Research and Method in Education, 10(5), 39-44. https://doi.org/10.9790/7388-1005013944 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[12] Gyllenpalm, J., Rundgren, C. J., Lederman, J., & Lederman, N. (2021). Views about scientific inquiry: A study of students’ understanding of scientific inquiry in grade 7 and 12 in Sweden. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research, 66(2), 336–354. https://doi.org/10.1080/00313831.2020.1869080 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[13] Hung, C. S., & Wu, H. K. (2023). High school science teachers’ assessment literacy for inquiry-based science instruction. International Journal of Science Education, 46(7), 621–642. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2023.2251657 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[14] Jerrim, J., Oliver, M., & Sims, S. (2019). The relationship between inquiry-based teaching and students’ achievement. New evidence from a longitudinal PISA study in England. Learning and Instruction, 61, 35-44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.learninstruc.2020.101310 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[15] Kazeni, M., & Mkhwanazi, N. (2021). Life sciences teachers’ understanding, perceptions and adoption of inquiry-based science education in selected South African high schools. Education and New Developments, 27. https://doi.org/10.36315/2021end006 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[16] Kersting, M., Karlsen, S., Ødegaard, M., Olufsen, M., Kjærnsli, M., & Suhr Lunde, M. L. (2023). Studying the quality of inquiry-based teaching in science classrooms. A systematic video study of inquiry-based science teaching in primary and lower-secondary schools. International Journal of Science Education, 45(17), 1463–1484. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2023.2213386 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[17] Khalaf, B. K., & Zin, Z. B M. (2018). Traditional and inquiry-based learning pedagogy: A systematic critical review. International Journal of Instruction, 11(4), 545-564. https://doi.org/10.12973/iji.2018.11434a Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[18] Li, X., Zhang, Y., Yu, F., Zhang, X., Zhao, X., & Pi, Z. (2024). Do science teachers’ believes related to inquiry-based teaching affect students’ science process skills? Evidence from a multilevel model analysis. Disciplinary and Interdisciplinary Science Education Research, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s43031-023-00089-y Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[19] Liu, Y., & Wang, J. (2022). The mediating–moderating model of inquiry-based learning and science self-efficacy: evidence from PISA 2015. International Journal of Science Education, 44(7), 1096–1119. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2022.2067364 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[20] Love, B., Hodge, A., Corritore, C., & Ernst, D. C. (2015). Inquiry-based learning and the flipped classroom model. Primus, 25(8), 745-762. https://doi.org/10.1080/10511970.2015.1046005 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[21] Lu, C., & So, W. W. M. (2023). Inquiry-based science teaching in English Medium Instruction science secondary classrooms: Teachers’ understanding and perceptions. Language and Education, 38(3), 401–417. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500782.2023.2221216 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[22] Mamombe, C., Mathabathe, K. C., & Gaigher, E. (2020). The influence of an inquiry-based approach on grade four learners’ understanding of the particulate nature of matter in the Gaseous Phase: A case study. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 16(1), em1812. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/110391 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[23] McMillan, J. H., & Schumacher, S. (2010). Research in education: Evidence-based inquiry. Pearson. Search in Google Scholar

[24] Mupira, P., & Ramnarain, U. (2018). The effect of inquiry‐based learning on the achievement goal‐orientation of grade 10 physical sciences learners at township schools in South Africa. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 55(6), 810-825. https://doi.org/10.1002/tea.21440 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[25] National Research Council. (2000). Inquiry and the National Education Standards: A guide for teaching and learning. The National Academies Press. Search in Google Scholar

[26] Nicol, C., Gakuba, E., & Habinshuti, G. (2020). An overview of learning cycles in science inquiry-based instruction. African Journal of Educational Studies in Mathematics and Sciences, 16(2), 76-81. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajesms.v16i.2.5 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[27] Ong, E. T., Govindasamy, D., Singh, C. K. S., Ibrahim, M. N., Wahab, N. A., Borhan, M. T., & Tho, S. W. (2021). The 5E inquiry learning model: Its effect on the learning of electricity among Malaysian students. Cakrawala Pendidikan, 40(1), 170-182. https://doi.org/10.21831/cp.v40i1.33415 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[28] Penn, M., Ramnarain, U., Kazen, M., Dhurumraj, L., Mavuru, L., & Ramaila, S. (2021). South African primary school learners’ understanding about the nature of scientific inquiry. Education, 49, 263-274. https://doi.org/10.1080/03004279.2020.1854956 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[29] Safkolam, R., Madahae, S., & Saleah, P. (2024). The effects of inquiry-based learning activities to understand the nature of science of science student teachers. International Journal of Instruction, 17(1), 479-496. https://doi.org/10.29333/iji.2024.17125a Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[30] Schwab, J. (1966). The teaching of science. Harvard University Press. Search in Google Scholar

[31] Sharpe, R., & Abrahams, I. (2019). Secondary school students’ attitudes to practical work in biology, chemistry and physics in England. Research in Science & Technological Education, 38(1), 84–104. https://doi.org/10.1080/02635143.2019.1597696 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[32] Siphukhanyo, L., & Olawale, B. E. (2024). Chronicling the experiences of life sciences teachers and learners on the usage of enquiry-based learning in enhancing learners’ academic performance. Journal of Culture and Values in Education, 7(1), 19-36. https://doi.org/10.46303/jcve.2024.2 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[33] Susilawati, S., Doyan, A., Artayasa, P., Soeprianto, H., & Harjono, A. (2020). Analysis of validation development science learning tools using guided inquiry model assisted by real media to improve the understanding concepts and science process skills of students. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 7(1), 41-44. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v7i1.473 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[34] Tanaka, H. (2007). Discussion-oriented teaching methods and examples: discussion-oriented lessons for improving students' expressive skills. In M. Isoda, M. Stephens, Y. Ohara &T. Miyakawa (Eds.), Japanese Lesson Study in mathematics: Its impact, diversity and potential for educational improvement (pp. 102-111). World Scientific. https://doi.org/10.1142/9789812707475_0019 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[35] Toma, R. B. (2022). Confirmation and structured inquiry teaching: Does it improve students’ achievement motivations in school science?. Canadian Journal of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, 22(1), 28-41. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42330-022-00197-3 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

[36] van Uum, M. S. J., Verhoeff, R. P., & Peeters, M. (2016). Inquiry-based science education: Towards a pedagogical framework for primary school teachers. International Journal of Science Education, 38(3), 450–469. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2016.1147660 Open DOI Search in Google Scholar

Scientia in educatione

The Power of Inquiry-Based Chemical Change Lesson in Under-Resourced Classrooms

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