Exploring the Problems Faced by Technical School Students in Learning Engineering Courses
Year: 2014
Type: article
Abstract: The teaching of engineering courses is relatively challenging due to the nature of the courses that are perceived as “difficult courses” by a number of \nstudents. Thus, the purpose of this action research was to explore the problems faced by electrical and electronic engineering (PKEE) students studying a difficult topic–transistor. This research was also aimed at identifying the students’ attitude towards Problem-based Learning (PBL). Literature has shown that PBL could enhance students’ understanding and make the learning more meaningful. The theoretical framework of this study \nwas based on Kemmis and Mc Taggart model. Cooperative learning method was also utilised in this study consisted of Jigsaw technique in the first and second rounds of the study. In the final round, the discussion method was \nused. In an action research design, a classroom is a usual research site. Thus, an engineering class of 30 Form 5 students in a Technical School was selected. The PBL method was applied in the class for a nine-week duration. Empirical data were gathered from peer assessment, observation, and pre- and post-tests. The data were described descriptively using frequency, mean and standard deviation. The main results show that the students were more interactive and their post-test result shows significant increases. In terms of the attitude towards PBL, the participants rated PBL highly. The participants also assert that the main benefits of PBL include enhancing their collaborative and problem-solving skills.
Source: UPSI Digital Repository
Institution: Sultan Idris Education University
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2345672780