Development of Science Activities for Primary Level to Promote Decision Making Skills Using Simon’s Theory of Rationality

Abstract

This research aims to develop science activities for primary level and evaluate science activities for primary level to promote decision making skills using Simon’s Theory of Rationality. The sample consisted of 8 primary science teachers and  25 primary students of Assumption College Primary Section. The questionnaire was used for asking opinions of science teachers on science activities for primary level to promote decision making skills using Simon’s Theory of Rationality, and an evaluation form was used for assessing student decision making skills.  The results revealed that 1) a set of science activities for primary level to promote decision making skills using Simon’s Theory of Rationality contained 5 activities related to daily life of primary school students; 2) most science teachers rated the activities for primary level at the high level and the highest levels in nearly all aspects except time spent on each activity, and the coverage of criteria for measuring and evaluating each learning activity; and  3) after utilizing a set of science activities, it was found that 76% of the students had high level of ability in thinking and reasoning. In the design stage, it was found that 60% of the students could design activities based on Simon's Theory of Rationality. And in the choice and review stages, it was found that 80% of the students had shown their abilities in making choices and reviewing those choices; and 4) regarding students’ learning retention, it revealed that more than 80 % of the students had a retention of Simon’s decision making skills.