Design of a 7E model inquiry-based STEM (iSTEM) lesson on digestive system for Grade 8: An open-inquiry approach

Abstract

In this research, we integrated inquiry-based learning and the 7E model lesson planning to STEM education and used the approach called Inquiry-based STEM learning (iSTEM) in order to engage students to be active participants in the teaching-learning process. The main goal of this study is geared towards the development of a 7E model inquiry-based STEM (iSTEM) lesson specifically on the parts and functions of the digestive system for grade 8 learners. The 7E model inquiry-based STEM (iSTEM) lesson was developed through the following stages: a. Selection of topic b. Identification of learning objectives c.designing of activity d. Assessment by the panel of experts e. revision f. pilot testing g. final revision h. ready to use 7E model inquiry-based (iSTEM) digestive system lesson. It was rated excellent by the panel of experts that was comprised of in-service science teachers. The performance of the students during the pilot testing (explore phase) was also excellent and 100% of them reached the passing standard. This implies that the developed 7E model inquiry-based STEM (iSTEM) digestive system lesson has a positive effect on the performance of the students and is ensured to have the features that can improve the teaching-learning process.