Factors contributing to students’ attainment in design and technology project work

Abstract

Design and Technology (Reka Bentuk dan Teknologi) or known as RBT, is a new subject introduced as part of the Secondary School Standard Curriculum (KSSM) in 2017. The content of this new subject focuses on the daily application of technology, specifically through the implementation of RBT project work. There is a need to assess whether this subject has a positive impact on students’ achievement, especially in project work. This study aimed to examine the factors influencing the performance of lower secondary school students in Johor Bahru district in their RBT project work. A total of 374 form three students were selected as a sample using descriptive approach and utilising quantitative research design. A questionnaire was used as the research instrument. A pilot study was conducted, and the result was analysed using the Rasch Measurement Model to determine the validity and reliability of the instruments used. Furthermore, the study’s data were analysed using the SPSS 25.0 software. The study found that students’ interest (m), attitude (s), knowledge (p), and skills (k) in RBT is at a moderate level with the mean value for each variable for (m) = 2.61, (s) = 2.79, (p) = 2.75, and (k) = 2.73. The Pearson coefficient found a significant relationship between interest, attitude, knowledge skills, and students' academic achievement, where r = 0.543 (p <0.05) for interest, r = 0.568 (p <0.05) for attitude, r = 0.526 (p <0.05) for knowledge, and r = 0.515 (p <0.05) for skills. The results of this study prove the need for a more interactive and effective teaching approach to increase students’ interests, attitudes, knowledge, and skills to improve their performance in RBT project work.