Published Paper Details:

The study investigates the impact of STEM-based instructional strategies, with a particular focus on hands-on learning, on the academic achievement of upper middle school science students. Applying a quasi-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design, the research involved Class 7 science students studying the topic "Acids and Bases." The same group of students was assessed before and after incorporating STEM-based instruction that emphasized hands-on activities, real-world problem solving, and interdisciplinary integration. The hands-on component involved active experimentation and collaborative tasks that encouraged students to directly interact with scientific concepts. Results reveals significant improvements in academic performance following the STEM intervention, reflecting enhanced conceptual understanding as well as improved application and problem-solving skills. These findings bring out the crucial role of hands-on learning within STEM education and support its amalgamation into standard middle school science curricula to promote deeper and more meaningful learning outcomes.