Assessment of scientific literacy among students: basis for development of Biology instructional material

Abstract

This study assessed the level of students' scientific literacy at Iloilo Science and Technology University, the result of which would serve as basis for developing instructional materials for teachers' use. This Instructional Material Development research employed statistical analysis of data gathered to determine the scientific literacy of 297 second year college students at Iloilo Science and Technology University. The assessment result informed the design and development of four modules. Results revealed that students have average level of knowledge and competence on the contents of health and diseases, natural resources, environmental quality, hazards, and frontiers of science and technology and have desirable attitude towards and interest in science, valuing scientific approaches to inquiry and environmental awareness. However, students scored least in knowledge on the contents that pertains to natural resources and environmental quality. In order to Improve the knowledge and competencies among students and to develop highly desirable attitude among them, the researcher developed modules based on the Identified gaps in the assessment and deemed appropriate using the ADDIE Instructional Design model which involves analysis, design, development implementation and evaluation .The design of lessons in the modules were guided by the 5E Instructional model consisting of five phases namely: engagement, exploration, explanation, elaboration and evaluation.