Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The utilization of hands-on science activities in elementary schools has garnered increasing interest due to its potential impact on student learning outcomes. This thesis investigates the effectiveness of hands-on science activities in enhancing student learning in elementary schools. The study is guided by the research question How do hands-on science activities influence student learning in elementary schools? The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of student performance data with qualitative insights from teachers and students. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, presenting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, and structure of the thesis. Chapter Two offers a comprehensive literature review, examining existing studies on hands-on science activities and their impact on student learning. The review highlights the benefits of hands-on learning, including increased engagement, improved retention, and enhanced critical thinking skills. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology, detailing the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The study involved administering pre- and post-tests to students, conducting interviews with teachers, and observing hands-on science activities in the classroom. The sample comprised elementary school students and teachers from diverse backgrounds. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, analyzing the impact of hands-on science activities on student learning outcomes. The results indicate a significant improvement in student performance following the implementation of hands-on activities. Teachers and students reported increased engagement, motivation, and interest in science, attributing these changes to the interactive nature of hands-on learning. The discussion in Chapter Four delves into the implications of the findings, exploring the potential benefits of integrating hands-on science activities into the elementary school curriculum. The chapter also addresses challenges and limitations encountered during the research process, such as time constraints and resource availability. Chapter Five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting key findings, implications for practice, and recommendations for future research. The study underscores the importance of hands-on science activities in promoting student engagement, fostering critical thinking skills, and enhancing overall learning outcomes in elementary schools. In conclusion, the research demonstrates the positive impact of hands-on science activities on student learning in elementary schools. By engaging students in interactive, experiential learning experiences, educators can enhance student motivation, curiosity, and academic achievement. This thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on innovative teaching strategies and underscores the importance of hands-on learning in promoting student success in science education.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "The impact of hands-on science activities on student learning in elementary schools" aims to investigate the effectiveness of incorporating hands-on science activities in elementary school classrooms. This project is motivated by the growing recognition of the importance of experiential learning in science education and the need to enhance student engagement and understanding in science subjects. The research will explore how hands-on science activities can positively influence student learning outcomes, including academic achievement, critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall interest in science. By providing students with opportunities to actively participate in experiments, investigations, and practical applications of scientific concepts, it is expected that their comprehension and retention of scientific knowledge will improve significantly. The study will be conducted in elementary schools, focusing on students in specific grade levels to assess the impact of hands-on science activities on different age groups. Various types of hands-on activities will be implemented, such as science experiments, projects, demonstrations, and interactive learning experiences, to cater to diverse learning styles and abilities. Data will be collected through pre- and post-implementation assessments, surveys, observations, and interviews with teachers and students to gather insights into the effectiveness of hands-on science activities. The research methodology will involve both quantitative and qualitative analysis to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the outcomes and implications of integrating hands-on activities into the science curriculum. The findings of this research are expected to contribute valuable insights to the field of science education, highlighting the benefits of hands-on learning experiences in enhancing student engagement and achievement in science subjects. By understanding the impact of hands-on science activities on student learning in elementary schools, educators and policymakers can make informed decisions on curriculum development and instructional strategies to promote effective science education practices.