Effect of Inquiry-based Teaching Approach on Students Achievement in Circle Theorems

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of inquiry-based teaching approach on students’ achievement in Circle theorems in Senior High Schools. The study used sequential exploratory mixed method research design to collect quantitative and qualitative data to answer the various research questions. A sample of 105 students and 6 mathematics teachers from the two schools were randomly and conveniently selected respectively for the study. Circle Theorems Achievement Tests (CTAT) was administered to both intact classes (control and experimental) as pre-test and after the intervention a similar CTAT was administered as post-test. During treatment, the experimental group were taken through inquiry- based teaching approach instruction while the traditional instruction was applied to the control group. Results from paired sample t-test showed that participants in the experimental group had increment in their post-test as compared to the pre-test. However, independent samples t-test results revealed that students in the experimental group achieved better in the post-test as compared to those in the control group. Interview data showed students negative attitudes and teachers’ teaching methods (use of traditional teaching method) were the main cause of students’ poor performance in circle theorems. The observation data also revealed that time factor was challenging since inquiry class activities needed more time to complete and also forming the small groups was a challenge in the class due to large class size and classroom not spacious. In conclusion, inquiry-based teaching approach was found to increased students’ achievement in circle theorem than the traditional instruction and hence recommended for teachers to implement it in their teaching.