Development of matter concept on submicroscopic level across ages

Abstract

This study is conducted to understand the development of the matter concept on the submicroscopic level among students of various age groups (16-17 and 24-25 years). A qualitative study with descriptive design was implemented across the ages. A total of ten open-ended questions from Ujian Kefahaman Konsep Jirim Pada Aras Submikroskopik (SUKKJPAS) were used to collect the data. 604 secondary students and training institute teachers were chosen using random sampling for this study. The data then were analysed using descriptive study and content analysis. The finding shows that the development of the matter concept on the submicroscopic level among the students is moderate from the scientific explanation aspect and poor from the scientific drawing aspect. Majority of the students has a basic knowledge about scientific explanation and scientific drawing, in fact, the matter concept also has becomes better across the ages from scientific explanation. Hence, this study recommends the teachers to emphasize on generating a drawing during in giving explanation about chemical phenomenon or situation so that the students will have a better understanding and at the same time familiarize the students with the scientific drawing. Students on the other hands should be encouraged to adapt this concept in giving explanation about chemical phenomenon or situation.