Abstract:

In this study, general chemistry experiments were designed using the case study method combined with POE (Predict-Observe-Explain) method and the effect of this application on the general chemistry academic achievement of the science teacher candidates was examined. The sample of the study was formed from 42 science teachers who were in General Chemistry Laboratory II course at a state university. In research, quasi-experimental quantitative research designs with pretest- posttest control group were used. The data of the study were obtained by using the 'Chemistry Achievement Test (CAT)' which has been prepared by using various sources and calculated for validity and reliability, and “worksheets” that based on case study method combined with POE (Predict-Observe-Explain) method. SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) was used for statistical analysis of data gathered via academic achievement tests towards the sub problems. Existences of significant variation between independent variables were analyzed the Mann-Whitney U test. Academic achievement test was applied as pre-test to experiment and control group before the application and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the analysis of the obtained data. Before the implementation, the participants of two groups are equal concerning in Academic Achievement. After the application, the academic achievement final test was applied to the two groups and there was a statistically significant difference in favor of the experimental group in the test scores As a result of the analyses, it is determined that laboratory approach based on case study method combined with POE method has significantly contributes to teacher candidates’ academic achievement.

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