Using astronomical models to improve students’ attitudes and achievements in physics

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to improve students’ attitudes and achievements in physics using astronomical models at Komenda College of Education, Central Region. A quasi-experimental design was adopted for the study using the single group pre-test post-test design. Intact class which consists of second year science 2 ‘’A’’ and science 2 ‘’B’’ science students studying elective Physics were used for the study. Forty (40) second year science students studying elective Physics were used. Purposive sampling technique was used for the selection of this class. The instruments used for the study were attitudes towards Physics scale (ATPS), test and interview. The attitudes towards Physics scale (ATPS) was used to measure students attitudes towards Physics. The test and interview was used to examine students’ knowledge and ability acquired in Physics concepts and general space science / astronomy concepts. Percentages, mean, standard deviation and independent sample t-test were used to answer the research questions. The results revealed that before the use of the astronomical models students have positive attitudes towards Physics. There was significant difference between the pre-test and post-test which suggests that the use of astronomical models has helped in improving students achievements in Physics. Also after the use of the astronomical models students still have positive attitudes towards Physics. Based on the results obtained it was therefore recommended that teachers must use astronomical models in teaching of astronomy related topics (the universe) in Physics to improve students attitudes and achievements in the Colleges of Education in Ghana.