The effectiveness of project-based learning on aiding ‘O’ level students to solve Geometry mensuration problems in mathematics.

Author
Sengamayi, Privilege Lucia
Title
The effectiveness of project-based learning on aiding ‘O’ level students to solve Geometry mensuration problems in mathematics.
Abstract
Geometry mensuration is a challenging topic for many students in mathematics, particularly at the ‘O’ level. This research aims to investigate the effectiveness of PBL in aiding O level students to solve geometry mensuration problems. Students often struggle with geometry mensuration due to factors such as lack of spatial reasoning skills, difficulties in interpreting diagrams and misunderstanding of the technical language used in geometry leading to misapplication of formulas. The study employed a quasi-experimental non-equivalent control-group, with two groups of twenty students assigned to either a PBL or traditional instruction group. The PBL group worked on real-world projects that require them to apply geometric principles to solve mensuration problems. The PBL activities include measuring of classrooms, calculating its perimeter, area and number of tiles needed to cover the classroom floors, construction of models of polygons and measuring the school garden calculating the amount of fence needed to cover the garden. The subjects were also assigned to measure a fish pond and calculate the volume of water needed to fill the pond. Data was collected using in class pre-and post-tests, as well as observations. Analysis of the results revealed significant improvements in the geometry mensuration problem-solving abilities of students in the PBL group compared to the traditional instruction group. This was evidenced by the mean scores obtained on the post-test results which were 9.9 for control group and 15.25 on the experimental group. Students in the PBL group demonstrated better understanding of geometric concepts, enhanced problem-solving strategies and increased confidence in mathematics. The benefits of PBL were observed on students during the study such as improved understanding of geometric concepts, enhanced problem-solving strategies and increased confidence in mathematics.
Date
June 2024
Publisher
Dr Dziva
Keywords
geometry mensuration ,mathematics
Supervisor
Dr Dziva
Item sets
Department of Curriculum and Educational Management
Media
Sengamayi P..pdf

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