Journal of Inquiry Based Activities

STEM Activity: Mathematics Inside the Hologram Pyramid

2023-09-01T05:54:49-04:00

In this study, a STEM activity was designed and implemented for eighth-grade students. The activity was used with thirty students and involved the construction of various hologram pyramids. During the activity, the mathematical concepts used in designing the hologram pyramids were discussed and the resulting hologram images were compared considering reflection laws and characteristics of an image formed by a plane mirror. Moreover, the angle of the pyramid’s surface in relation to the horizontal plane was discussed for the purpose of obtaining a clearer hologram image. It was revealed that the activity designed by the researchers is relevant for improving students’ knowledge and skills related to STEM. Furthermore, the fact that the hologram pyramid was created by paper folding, as opposed to using the design methods reported in the literature, made the activity suitable for middle school students. Finally, suggestions for teachers who wish to implement the activity are offered.

Reaching Pythagorian Theorem By Folding Patty Paper

2023-09-01T05:56:59-04:00

In this study, a paper folding activity task, which involved reaching the Pythagorean Theorem with a series of steps was designed. The aim of the task is to reach the Pythagorean Theorem with folding activities by deductive reasoning and logical inference. The study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the task and to share the patty paper folding task with the teachers. The activity was used with 20 ninth grade students studying in a public school. The patty paper folding activity task was carried out for a total of 6 lesson hours for three weeks. The students did not have difficulty while folding; they generally had difficulties in performing algebraic operations and expressing the concepts mathematically. The students participated in the activity willingly and the patty paper folding task helped students understand why the theorem is true and contributed to meaningful learning in terms of being a explanatory proof.

2023 October Issue

2023-10-30T11:07:52-04:00

Teaching Concepts to Students with Visual Impairments: Touch-Listen-Learn Model

2023-09-01T05:55:11-04:00

Visual representations, such as graphics and shapes, are modes of presenting information that can pose a challenge for individuals with visual impairments. To address this issue, mobile technologies that provide tactile and auditory stimuli have been developed to ensure equal learning opportunities for individuals with visual impairments. The study investigates the extent to which Touch-Listen-Learn model, implemented through Tactile Images Reader mobile application, contributes to the concept teaching of students with visual impairments. This study used the Touch-Listen-Learn model to teach concepts to three secondary school students with visual impairments. Each student used, only tactile material, tactile material with audio description, and the Touch-Listen-Learn model. Students with visual impairments were able to actively participate in the concept teaching through the Touch-Listen-Learn Model. The results suggest that the use of the Touch-Listen-Learn model could support independent and self-paced visual information learning among students with visual impairment.

A Socio-Scientific Issue Activity: Global Pandemic Diseases and Methods of Prevention

2023-10-08T08:59:14-04:00

In this study, the primary goal was to enhance the knowledge and awareness of 4th-grade primary school students regarding global pandemic diseases and methods of safeguarding against worldwide epidemic diseases which are socio-scientific issues. To achieve this goal, two activity modules tailored for 4th-grade students were created. These encompassed various activities, including experiments, worksheets on scientific process skills, science-themed interactive reading, and poster development. The research was conducted at a public school during the 2022–2023 academic year, utilising a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through pre- and post-implementation interviews. The findings of the study indicated that students were able to articulate accurate scientific information about global pandemics and protective measures. They also demonstrated an ability to implement preventive measures in their daily lives and share information about global pandemics with their families and friends. Furthermore, it was observed that students developed a more positive perception of scientists.