Abstract:

The purpose of this research is to reveal the impact of problem based learning approach on academic achievement of 6th grade students who are taking Information Technologies and Software course. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used together in the research. The study group of the research consists of 43 6th grade students studying at a secondary school in the academic year 2016-2017. In the research, in order to collect data, an achievement test, a student performance evaluation form, a groupmate evaluation form and an interview form on determining the opinions of students on problem based learning were used. When analyzing research data, both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods were used. When we look at the results of the research; it was concluded that the problem based learning approach has increased the success in information technology and software course. In addition, when the opinions of experimental group students on their groupmates were examined, it was found that the students generally adopt group work and are striving to be active, aware of their responsibilities and care about the human relations within the group. After the opinions of the teacher using the method on the student performances, some students in some groups were found to be very successful in solving problems by fulfilling their duties and responsibilities in general, or taking leadership roles while some were failed. Experiment group students seem to have positive views on the method supporting co-operation, ensuring active participation and persistent learning. However, it was also concluded that they had negative opinions about intra-group disagreements and intra-group responsibilities not being fulfilled. While most of the students have positive opinions about the activities carried out, some students have complained about the activities taking a long time. 

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