Augmenting Learning of Science; Need Based Support to Bridge the Attainment of Learning Outcomes for Transition from Upper Primary to Secondary

Abstract

At the secondary stage, the science is learned as a composite discipline and the concepts beyond direct experience occupy an important place in the curriculum. The secondary curriculum also demands analysis and interpretation of directly observable science phenomena studied at upper primary stage. This significant increase in the difficulty level of the science curriculum from upper primary to secondary level can be interpreted as additional challenges for the students who are at the entry level to secondary stage of schooling. The present work is to augment the learning of science by need based support materialbridging the attainment of Learning Outcomes (LOs) for their transition from upper primary to secondary. The existing gaps in understanding the concepts in learning of science from upper primary to secondary level were explored through survey and interviewing the 222 students and 39 teachers of 5 states— Rajasthan, Uttrakhand, J & K, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh. The questions were aimed to identify the learning difficulties in attaining the Learning Outcomes, with probable reasons such as insufficient prerequisite knowledge, introduction of concept(s) formally for first time, lack of proper learning material etc. The qualitative data in the form of responses from students and teachers were analyzed along with perceived causes. As an outcome of research, the need specific support material to facilitate and augmenting learning of science concepts with individual pace of learning at secondary level of schooling were developed.