Physics practical reports writing at advanced school level: an investigation into common mistakes made by students in high schools in Harare.

Author

Jombe, Synthiate V.

Title

Physics practical reports writing at advanced school level: an investigation into common mistakes made by students in high schools in Harare.

Abstract

This study investigates the common mistakes made by Advanced Level Physics students when writing practical reports, focusing on high schools in Harare. Practical report writing is a critical skill in physics education, yet many students struggle to produce accurate, coherent, and scientifically rigorous reports. The study explores the nature and frequency of these mistakes, the underlying causes, and the relationship between student performance, teaching experience, and prior academic achievement. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing questionnaires for students and teachers, direct observation of practical sessions, and analysis of student reports. The findings revealed prevalent mistakes in data presentation, graph plotting, experimental design, and analysis, often linked to insufficient guidance, limited laboratory experience, and foundational knowledge gaps. Furthermore, correlations were observed between teaching experience and student performance, as well as between students' O-Level grades and their ability to write practical reports effectively. The study concludes with recommendations for addressing these challenges, including enhanced teacher training, increased practice opportunities, and the integration of structured feedback mechanisms. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on improving practical science education and offer actionable strategies for stakeholders in Zimbabwean schools and beyond.

Date

December 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Physics practical

Reports writing

Advanced level

Mistakes

Physics education

Supervisor

Dr. P. Mudzamiri