Action Research Project- Hands On Science
Level of Education of Students Involved
Undergraduate
Faculty Sponsor
Selina Bartels
Discipline(s)
Science education, cirriculum, educational psychology
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 4-24-2025
Abstract
My research expands on the direct influence of incorporating hands-on, interactive science experiments into the elementary science curriculum. My research is based on student engagement and understanding of key scientific concepts. Through surveys and classroom-based observations, data was collected from three different elementary teachers and their students to compare outcomes between hands-on learning and directly lectured based instruction through a book. This study showed students who engaged in interactive science experiements demonstrated higher engagement and comprehension of science topics. Hands on lessons were reported by teachers to have increased test scores, morale, engagement, and understanding. It was also reported that this study showed collaboration with others, boosting students building off of each other during interactive science experiements. Teachers that filled out the survey stressed that they value hands on learning, and it directly showed within data collected.
Recommended Citation
Dybel, Kayla N., "Action Research Project- Hands On Science" (2025). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 1440.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/1440
Biographical Information about Author(s)
I (Kayla Dybel) am a senior Elementary Education major. I am student teaching at Heavilin Elementary School in Valparaiso, IN. I finished up my eight weeks in fourth grade, and my second half in a special education room. I have a passion for science education and exploring tools for students to navigate science with.