Comparison between theoretical training and experimental/software-based laboratory training in improving the learning of chemistry concepts and eliminating misunderstanding

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original research

Authors

Department of Chemistry Education, Farhangian University, P.O.Box 14665-889, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Frequent changes in educational content, on one hand, and the existence of some abstract concepts in the chemistry, on the other hand, have created great deal of misunderstanding among students. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the necessity of paying attention to the role of conducting book-based experiments in the virtual and in-person chemistry environment in schools as an effective driving factor in the success and understanding of students. Methodology: The present study is classified as applied research in terms of its purpose, a survey study in terms of data collection, and a quantitative comparative study in terms of data analysis. The tool of the study is a questionnaire, and on this basis, six conceptual chemistry questions were prepared, and the correct response rate of statistical population of students to the questionnaire was examined. Cronbach’s alpha (0.959) obtained indicated a very high reliability of the questionnaire and good internal consistency among the questions. While the questionnaires were completed in one group without any practical and virtual training, for the other group, the concepts in question were taught through a practical experiment and a virtual laboratory with the help of software, followed by answering the questions. Findings: Based on the results obtained from the population under study, school students for whom the experiments were conducted have a deeper understanding of chemistry concepts and a better ability to apply and generalize to similar situations in life, and their level of misunderstanding is lower because the significance level for most of the questionnaire items is lower than 0.05. conclusion: It was found that doing book-based experiments has a positive effect on better learning and removing misunderstanding among the students. In addition, the virtual performance of tests through related laboratory software leads to a better understanding of course concepts.

Keywords

Research in Chemistry Education

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 25 September 2025

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