Fostering Critical Thinking Skills and Enjoyment in Science 8 Class Using Interactive Science Notebook (ISN)

AUTHOR(S)

MELANIE P. SULDANO

ABSTRACT

—— In science teaching, the ability to think critically and to reason out have been regarded as the central outcomes of students’ learning. A simple yet powerful instructional tool that caters this need is the Interactive Science Notebook (ISN). The conducted study attempted to provide solution to the low scientific proficiency of Grade 8 students of Valencia National High School, Division of Valencia City through the utilization of ISN. Descriptive research was employed involving pre-test and posttest design measuring the achieved critical thinking skills of the students using ISN. Likewise, the student’s attitude towards learning science was compared before and after utilization of ISN, this was supported by the employment of interview schedule. Results of the study revealed that during the last three grading periods where ISN was used, the students achieved a higher critical thinking skills mean scores when compared to their pre-test mean scores resulting to improved science learning outcomes. Data shows that it allows students to take control of their learning while processing information and engaging in self-reflection, further providing them a varied set of strategies to create a personal, organized, and documented learning record. Additionally, a remarkable change was observed on the attitude of the students in terms of enjoyment in learning science as most of the students’ experienced meaningful learning when they are actively engaged in their learning process. Given these results, it is possible that longer implementation of the ISN might yield larger effects. Thus, the ISN could potentially affect students’ scientific proficiency. As educators are held accountable for increasing student achievement through the use of research proven methods, Interactive Science Notebook (ISN) can be promising variables in teaching and learning which could justify observable behavior to increase students’ academic achievement. Keywords — Critical Thinking Skills, Enjoyment, Interactive, Notebook, Science