The innovative use of smartphone for sound STEM practical kit: a pilot implementation for secondary classroom

ABSTRACT Background Recent studies have highlighted the application of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) knowledge into daily life via hands-on practical works. The limitations of the existing conventional laboratory work can be potentially overcome by the implementation of the innovative use of smartphones as an experimental tool due to its effectiveness and convenience to apply anywhere and anytime. Purpose The purpose of the study was to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a sound STEM practical kit using free mobile apps for secondary school students. This study also examined student perceptions of the implementation of the developed sound practical kit. Sample Two intact Form 2 classes of secondary school students from a mainstream school in the state of Perak, Malaysia, were chosen using the cluster sampling method as research sample. One of the classes was selected as an experimental group (n = 36 students) with the implementation of developed sound practical kit, while the other class was a comparison group (n = 30 students) employing a conventional teaching method. Methods A developmental research design according to the ASSURE (Analyse learners; State objectives; Select media and materials; Utilise media and materials; Require learner participation; and Evaluate) instructional design model and quasi-experimental were employed in this study. A set of achievement test and open-ended questions were employed as research instruments. The data were analysed using a non-parametric test that included Mann-Whitney test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test, while the students’ feedbacks and comments were analysed using Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) software. Results The findings demonstrated a significant difference between the posttest of the comparison group and the experimental group students. Conclusions In summary, the developed sound practical kit improved students’ understanding on the topic of sound. In implication, this study indicates that the implementation of STEM practical kit using free mobile apps promotes the interactive STEM teaching and learning process in secondary education.