A Study of Using Science Processing Skills for Hearing–impaired Students at Ramkhamhaeng University with STEM Based Learning: A Case Study

Abstract

               In this experimental research investigation, the researcher compared academic achievement in scientific processing skills prior to the commencement and after the conclusion of this study. The researcher also determined the levels at which these scientific processing skills were found in respect to the aspect of experiment. Finally, the researcher established the level of capability shown by students with hearing deficiencies using integrating scientific knowledge, by means of employing science-technology-engineering-mathematics (STEM) learning activities. The population consisted of five hearing deficient students who had registering at Ramkhamhaeng University (RU). A tripartite set constituted the research instruments: an academic achievement test for the capability in separating individual substances in a mixture using a separatory funnel; an observation form for evaluating the use of scientific processing skills in the aspect of experiments based on actual conditions; and an observation form to evaluate the capability in the integration of scientific knowledge utilizing STEM learning activities based on actual conditions. The data collected were analyzed in a twofold manner. Data obtained from the results of the academic achievement test were analyzed using percentage. Data taken from observation forms employed in evaluating the employment of scientific processing skills in the aspect of experiment and in evaluating capability in integrating knowledge through the application of STEM learning activities were analyzed utilizing frequency. The findings were as follows: 1. The academic achievement of the students prior to the study of scientific process skills using STEM learning activities differed from their academic achievement after the completion of the study. In respect to knowledge and capability, academic achievement was found to be at a very good level after the completion of the study. However, one student exhibited knowledge and capability at the minimum level of pass. 2. Insofar as concerned the student level in the use of scientific processing skills in the aspect of experimenting with students employing STEM learning was found to be at a good level. All students planned an experiment and showed they employed good experimental methods. They exhibited facility in their experiments at a good level; two students evinced work facility at a fair level. 3. Concerning the level of capability in the integration of scientific knowledge employing STEM learning activities, it was found that all of the students displayed knowledge of engineering at a good level. Knowledge in science and mathematics was also exhibited at a good level; one student evinced knowledge of science and mathematics at a fair level. Knowledge in basic practical technology was shown at a fair level; one student displayed knowledge at a good level; and one student exhibited knowledge of needing improvement.