Arab Educational Information Network

This study aimed to investigate the effect of using the Daniel Model supplemented by a virtual laboratory on the development of scientific thinking among eighth graders in Gaza. The study was conducted on the second part of the eighth grade science book, specifically on the Light and Optics Unit. The researcher designed a content analysis tool for the Light and Optics Unit, and a scientific thinking test. The researcher prepared the test items based on the content analysis findings and then presented the test to a panel of referees and afterwards applied it on a pilot sample to calculate its internal consistency. The test reliability was calculated using the split-half method and the Kuder-Richardson 20 coefficient. After the verification of the internal consistency and reliability of the test, its items became 40. The sample of the study consisted of (76) eighth graders from Al-Qarara Preparatory School for Boys. The sample was randomly divided into an experimental group consisting of (37) and a control group consisting of (39) students. The study adopted the experimental approach, two-group, experimental and control, design. The study found that there were statistically significant differences at the level of (α = 0.01) between the mean scores of the experimental group and those of the control group in the scientific thinking test and its skills (observation, conclusion and classification) in favor of the experimental group. However, the mean scores of the interpretation skill did not show any statistically significant differences between the two groups. The study recommended the use of the Daniel Model supported by the virtual laboratory in the teaching of science, the preparation of courses for both teachers and students and the design of programs that simulate the experiments found in the curriculum. (Author's abstract)