The effect of using visualization courseware on student's performance and confidence in learning thermodynamics

• Main Author: Sharjudeen, Sharul Hadfizrullah
• Format: Thesis
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: Q Science
• Online Access: http://eprints.utm.my/id/eprint/42019/; http://dms.library.utm.my:8080/vital/access/manager/Repository/vital:77827?queryType=vitalDismax&query=The+effect+of+using+visualization+courseware+on+student&public=true

This research was conducted to investigate the effect of using a visualization courseware to learn Energy and The First Law of Thermodynamics on student’s performance and confidence. The samples were 38 first year students from the Faculty of Chemical Engineering of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. A mixed method design consists of a quasi experimental approach and structured interview was used to collect the data for this research. Series of pre and post test together with the distribution of confidence-log questionnaire were used to gather quantitative data from two groups of students to measure their performance and confidence. These data were then analyzed statistically where T-Test was conducted to determine any significant difference between and within these groups. Mean were also used to determine the results gathered from this research. Interview sessions were also conducted on both groups to find out the reasons behind their change of confidence and performance. Content analysis was used to analyze the narrative text from the recorded interviews. The results shows positive impacts as there were significant improvements shown. The courseware helped them to visualize and see the processes through simulations provided. It also gave the students a better option rather than depending solely on the class notes and exercises given by the lecturer. The courseware successfully provide positive mastery experience for the users which then gave them concrete confidence or self efficacy in their understanding on the topics thus enhanced their performance in the tests given. Further researches on how other courseware can be used as well as the integration of this courseware within the lecture should be done to increase the potential of visual and courseware learning within this subject.