Students’ Conceptual Understanding Development of sound wave propagation using simulation: a Case of Yehibiret Fire High School, South West Shaw, Oromia, Eth

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the conceptual understanding development of students’ sound wave propagation using computer simulation in Yehibiret Fire Secondary School. A quasi-experimental design was used to achieve the objectives of the study. Sixty two students from two sections of grade nine were selected through convenience sampling method. Thirty conceptual multiple-choice questions in sound wave propagation with one correct answer and three distractors were developed and used as tool for data collection. A pilot test was conducted at Yehibiret Fire high school on thirty grade nine students to check the reliability and validity of the test. The reliability of the test was checked using Kuder Richardsun-21(KR-21= 0.89), which was good value for testing. The outcome of the findings shows that almost all the scores and concentration factors of students’ before intervention was in low level, but after intervention the students’ response scores changed to medium level scores for those students exposed to conventional teaching approach, and medium level scores and high level scores for those students exposed to computer simulation strategy. In addition, the results analyzed by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) indicates, there was a statistical significance dif erence between the two groups in favor of computer simulation strategy on posttests F, ,(1,59)=29.82,p=0.00, that reveals the computer simulation strategy was more ef ective than traditional teaching approach in changing students’ alternative conception toward scientific conception. Furthermore, Hake’s normalized gain of the examinee exposed to computer simulation was greater than the examinee exposed to traditional teaching strategy, that showed computer simulation strategy was ef ective than traditional teaching method. Finally, it is concluded that computer simulation strategy is more ef ective than conventional teaching approach in developing students’ conceptual understanding of sound wave propagation. Based on the results it was recommended that school administrative bodies should facilitate appropriate technological resources for science teaching