When it comes to science education, hands-on experiments are an essential part of the learning process. Students who are able to conduct experiments and observe the results firsthand are more likely to retain the information they learn and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter. However, not all students have the opportunity to conduct a sufficient number of experiments before they are faced with the challenge of an exam.
This was the case for a group of students who were given a diagram for an experiment involving the concept of latent heat of vaporisation. Despite being provided with a clear diagram and instructions, many of the students found themselves unable to improve upon the experiment in the exam. The reason? They simply lacked the experience necessary to fully grasp the concept.
It's a common problem in science education: students are often limited by the number of experiments they are able to conduct in a classroom setting. This can be due to a variety of factors, including time constraints, limited equipment, and safety concerns. As a result, students may find themselves struggling to understand complex concepts and apply them to real-world scenarios.
In this particular case, the solution was simple: the students were given access to the equipment used in the experiment, allowing them to play around with it and gain a better understanding of how it worked. This hands-on experience proved invaluable, helping the students to improve their understanding of the concept of latent heat of vaporisation and apply it to the exam question at hand.
This experience serves as a reminder of the importance of hands-on learning in science education. While diagrams and instructions can be helpful, they are no substitute for the real thing. By providing students with access to equipment and the opportunity to conduct their own experiments, we can help them develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter and set them up for success in their future scientific endeavours.
