Enhancing the conceptual understanding and performance of students in “blood circulatory system in humans” using Multimedia Instructional Method (MMIM)

Abstract

This study revealed various misconceptions held by Level 200 students of Integrated Science at the St. Vincent College of Education, Yendi on blood circulation system in humans. The use of the multimedia instruction method (MMIM) in teaching the blood circulatory system in humans not only resolved their previously held misconceptions, but also enhanced the students’ conceptual understanding of the topic and improved, as well their academic performance in the related topic taught. The research design for this study was the action research. The purposive sampling and census technique were used to select the Science 2A class, comprising 200 students of the St Vincent College of Education, Yendi. The study demonstrated that the use of the MMIM boosted students’ enthusiasm and interest in the topic, promoted and enhanced their comprehension of blood circulatory system in humans. The comparison of students’ pre-intervention misconceptions about the topic and their pre-test scores with post-test scores and post intervention responses to short essay-type questions and questionnaire established that the MMIM intervention improved students’ understanding of the topic and their performance. This study will serve as a teaching tool for teachers of Biology in the teaching of blood circulatory system in humans and similar biology topics. The MMIM can reduce or eliminate students’ misconceptions on topics learnt.