SDCA Asia-Pacific Multidisciplinary Research Journal

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a contextualizing model for Science education. As a basis for developing the model, profiling was done first. Difficult topics as perceived by students and their teachers were also identified including the reasons why they found them challenging. This was done to examine the dimensions that made Science concepts, skills and values acquisition problematic. Each of the baseline data was used to design the model. It focused on problems that can be readily solved and addressed like the development of a material/ strategy/mechanism. To gather preliminary data, adapted and validated questionnaires and needs assessment surveys were used. Follow-up interviews and a series of concept checking activities with the students and focus group discussions with teachers were also done to gain a more profound understanding of the situation. The results of became the baseline for crafting the model proposed herein. The model designed made sure to have it crafted following the guidelines set by the K to 12 Science education framework. The results included the design of an instructional material and its implementation. Pilot testing was done in Grade 7 classes, and evaluation of the developed material for further enhancement was done by experts. Student journals and faculty FGDs revealed some positive responses with regards to the contextualized material. However, some key points for further revisions for improvement were also noted. The use of original pictures for the materials, add more activities from which to choose from depending on their interests and abilities and the inclusion of a language that can be easily understood are among the suggestions. After the identified processes, experts evaluated the feasibility of use of the model considering its overall structure. The results reveal that the QUEST model can be feasible for use to bridge gaps in Science learning among students.

Keywords: QUEST model. Science education. Contextualization. Instructional material.

To cite this article:

Silverio, A. D. P., & Catris, L. V. (2021). Model for contextualization: Bridging gaps in science education. SDCA Asia-Pacific Multidisciplinary Research Journal, 3, 40-51. doi: 10.5281/zenodo.8022219