The Effects of Collaborative Learning on Problem Solving Abilities among Senior Secondary School Physics Students in Simple Harmonic Motion

Abstract

The study investigated the effects of collaborative learning on problem solving abilities among senior secondary physics students in simple harmonic motion(SHM). The sample was made up of 112 physics teachers and 81 physics students drawn from two urban and one rural school. The research instruments employed for the study were Physics Teachers Questionnaire on Simple Harmonic Motion (PTQSHM) and Simple Harmonic Motion Achievement Test (SHMAT). Statistical data analysis tools utilized were the simple percentage, four point Likert-Scale of 2.50 criterion mark and t-test at 5% level of significance. The result of the findings showed that: mathematical calculations involved in SHM make students to shy away from the topic, students are motivated when they cooperatively solve problems in physics, there was significant difference in problem solving abilities among students taught using collaborative learning strategy and those taught with the conventional method, there is no significant difference between boys and girls in their problem solving abilities using the collaborative strategy. Based on the findings, It was recommended that teachers encourage group learning, group projects, tasks and assignments which facilitate collaborative learning and improves problem solving abilities among the students.