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Journal : Budapest International Research and Critics in Linguistics and Education Journal (Birle Journal)

Common Science Misconceptions among Junior, Secondary School, and College Freshmen: A Case Study in Dire Dawa City, Ethiopia Goshu, Belay Sitotaw; Misganu, Tewodros; Abas, Ermias; Woldeamanue, Melaku Masresha; Ridwan, Muhammad
Budapest International Research and Critics in Linguistics and Education (BirLE) Journal Vol 7, No 3 (2024): Budapest International Research and Critics in Linguistics and Education, August
Publisher : BIRCU

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/birle.v7i3.7949

Abstract

The aim of this study was to clarify misconceptions about science subjects among middle school, high school, and first-year university students in Dire Dawa City. The sample size was 1,576 first-year middle school and university students in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. The researchers asked each participant to write responses to open-ended questions about general concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics. The authors use descriptive analysis techniques. These results show that 31.6% of respondents and 49.9% of respondents incorrectly believe that breathing, breathing, and germs are always incorrect concepts. Furthermore, it was found that 33.0% of respondents had a misunderstanding that "seeds and eggs are not living things." 54.6% of respondents had a good understanding that carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen are essential elements for living things, but 26.1% said they did not have a clear understanding of this indicator. Moreover, it was found that 45.9% of respondents did not understand the concept of pressure and violence. 27.9% of respondents did not clearly understand this indicator, while the rest 20.6% understood about pressure. We concluded that the level of common misconceptions about science subjects among teachers, students' families, and students was very high. The government revised existing textbooks, and teachers need to review their teaching methods and work with school leaders to develop intervention mechanisms. Students should have a forum with their families to reflect on what students have learned and discuss science with their children. They are a source of dissemination of existing misconceptions.
A Receptor-Oriented Approach to Overcoming Universal Challenges in Science Education Goshu, Belay Sitotaw; Ridwan, Muhammad
Budapest International Research and Critics in Linguistics and Education (BirLE) Journal Vol 7, No 4 (2024): Budapest International Research and Critics in Linguistics and Education, Novemb
Publisher : BIRCU

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/birle.v7i4.7986

Abstract

This study explores key challenges in science education from a receptor-oriented perspective, analyzing the experiences of teachers, students, school administrators, policymakers, and community stakeholders. Findings reveal significant barriers, including inadequate resources, limited professional development for teachers, low student engagement, outdated curricula, and insufficient policy support. Teachers reported a lack of access to necessary resources and training in emerging science topics, which limits their ability to conduct hands-on, inquiry-based lessons. Students expressed a desire for more relevant, real-world applications in science, which are missing due to curriculum rigidity and emphasis on standardized testing. Furthermore, administrators identified funding constraints and digital illiteracy as obstacles to implementing modern science education. Community and industry involvement was identified as crucial yet underutilized, limiting students' exposure to STEM career pathways and practical science applications. The findings underscore the need for reform strategies that provide resource allocation, updated curricula, reduced testing pressures, digital literacy initiatives, and structured partnerships with industry. A receptor-oriented approach is recommended to tailor solutions for each group’s unique needs, ultimately supporting a more engaging, equitable, and future-focused science education system.
Assessing the learning outcomes of 8th-grade students from the National Exam in 2023 in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia Goshu, Belay Sitotaw; Abas, Ermias; Fitria, Fitria
Budapest International Research and Critics in Linguistics and Education (BirLE) Journal Vol 7, No 4 (2024): Budapest International Research and Critics in Linguistics and Education, Novemb
Publisher : BIRCU

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/birle.v7i4.7964

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to assess and examine the learning objectives attained by eighth-grade students who took part in the 2023 National Exam in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. The study's descriptive research design gathers data on academic performance in the eighth grade. Every primary school, both private and public, was selected. Data was gathered from the education bureau using the academic roster for the 2023 national test. The descriptive approach was used to evaluate the student's progress toward the next level and their academic accomplishment. Using Python 3.11 software, the assessment was completed by classifying the students based on their mother tongue. The findings of the study indicated that in the Afan Somali stream, the average grade points for pupils in the academic year 2023 were 28.2 , 22.3 21.2 , 16.7 , 20.5 , and, 20.0 , respectively, in the fields of the Afan Somali language, English, citizenship, mathematics, social studies, and general science.  The average grade points for students in the Afan Oromo stream in the academic year 2023 were 28.4 , 20.3 20.4 , 17.1 , 22.6 , and 21.0 , respectively, in the fields of the Afan Somali language, English, citizenship, mathematics, social studies, and general science. Moreover, in Amharic, the average grade points for pupils in the academic year 2023 were 33.2 , 22.6 19.9 , 18.5 , 22.6 , and, 21.2 , respectively, in the fields of Amharic, English, citizenship, mathematics, social studies, and general science. According to these results, 26.4% of students who received scores higher than 50% and 73.6% of students who received scores lower than 50% were advanced to the next grade. However, the study suggests that primary schools should be equipped with the tools required to support high academic achievement. It is imperative to look for teachers who possess the necessary training, experience, aptitude for learning, and teaching abilities. According to their mother tongue languages, kids' academic performance varies, as evidenced by the results, which highlights the need for customized teaching strategies. The recommendations of the study for areas that warrant more investigation, such as studies on instructional materials and teacher quality carried out in elementary schools to get complete comparisons and identify other factors influencing learning results.