Integrating and enhancing mathematical knowledge in Jelebu secondary schools

Abstract

The essence of STEM education is to prepare students that would eventually enter the workforce with STEM knowledge. This project was conducted in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan involving four secondary schools in the quest to improve students' mastery and interest in mathematics. More than one hundred Form 2 students with mathematical knowledge ranging from low to medium are involved. There are two phases of teaching and learning being incorporated, namely i) short lectures on selected topics ii) activities comprising of group activities and 'treasure' hunt activity. Students' achievements are assessed in the form of pre-test and post-test, of which the questions on both tests are identical. By conducting pre-test and post-test, the level of students' skills before and after the learning process could be assessed. Findings show that this project has improved the basic knowledge and skills of students in Mathematics. Each school shows some increase in mean marks. Statistical paired t-test indicates there is significant difference between the two test results for each school. Students also participated well by showing high levels of interest and enthusiasm when activities are carried out.