Exploring year 11 IGCSE students critical thinking in learning genetics using a virtual biology laboratory / Darishini Sugumar

Darishini , Sugumar (2024) Exploring year 11 IGCSE students critical thinking in learning genetics using a virtual biology laboratory / Darishini Sugumar. Masters thesis, Universiti Malaya.

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Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the exploration of critical thinking skills among Year 11 IGCSE students in genetic learning using virtual biology laboratory. The study addresses the lack of critical thinking skills observed in genetic learning among IGCSE students in secondary international schools. Six Year 11 IGCSE students from an international school in Ipoh were selected using purposive sampling based on willingness to participate and ICT grades. Data was collected through structured group interviews and field notes from observations. Thematic analysis was employed for data analysis. The Three themes were emerged based on the data analysis contributing to the exploration of critical thinking skills: knowledge construction, evaluating reasoning, and decision-making. Positive perceptions regarding the use of virtual labs were identified, that are usability and comprehensibility which could positively impact critical thinking skills, along with negative perceptions which are limited real world skills and technical issues that offer areas for improvement. Based on the findings, enhancing problem-solving skills through knowledge construction, evaluating reasoning, and decision-making can effectively promote critical thinking skills among Year 11 IGCSE students in genetic learning using virtual biology laboratory. Positive perceptions can be leveraged to enhance critical thinking skills, while negative perceptions offer opportunities for refinement in the use virtual laboratory. The implications include improved problem-solving abilities and application of genetic knowledge.

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