Método experimental y su incidencia en la adquisición de aprendizajes significativos, ciencias naturales, octavo grado, Colegio Juan Montalvo, Machala, 2023-2024

Abstract

The current research project aims to improve the acquisition of significant learning through experimental activities for eighth-grade students in the subject of Natural Sciences at Juan Montalvo High School during the 2023-2024 academic year. The research approach is mixed qualitative-quantitative and includes an explanatory, descriptive, and relational level. To achieve the established objectives, techniques such as surveys, interviews, and observation guides were utilized with a sample of 84 students and 2 teachers. The proposed research is carried out with the purpose of studying the formulation of the central and specific objectives, as well as the identification of the central problem. This is done to establish the impact of the experimental method on the acquisition of meaningful learning. Therefore, the delimitation of the independent and dependent variables has been crucial for the development of the theoretical framework. This framework has been substantiated by a wide array of bibliographic sources, including scientific articles and indexed journals. Similarly, for the elaboration of the contextual framework, institutional data has been utilized, while legal aspects have been addressed through references to articles from the Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador, the Organic Law of Intercultural Education LOEI, and the Code of Childhood and Adolescence. The results obtained through the execution of the research methods indicate that teachers make limited use of experimental activities. This is attributed to their continued reliance on traditional methodologies in the educational process. Additionally, the institution lacks adequate laboratory equipment, thereby impeding the utilization of this space for practical scientific learning experiences. Consequently, students are unable to apply their scientific knowledge effectively. According to the findings from the interviews, the teachers concede the significance of adopting experiments as an innovative strategy in student development. Furthermore, observations of each selected class demonstrated that the teachers did not provide a playful and interactive learning experience. In conclusion, it is evident that significant learning is not achieved in the subject based on the established topics in the academic text. Therefore, a proposal for a manual of experimental procedures has been put forward, which includes a series of home experiments, laboratory experiments, simulators, and platforms. The manual is of great importance as it allows teachers to innovate their classes and stimulate student interest and curiosity in learning. By selecting experiments or online games, teachers can conduct interactive and dynamic classes to help students acquire scientific skills and attitudes. The manual of procedures is feasible to implement, as it was developed with a strong foundation and received the necessary guidance for its production. Each experiment, simulator, and platform were carefully selected with the intention of supporting teachers in using innovative teaching methods rather than traditional approaches, leading to improved academic performance among students.