OUT OF THE CLASSROOM: IB STUDENTS’ EXPERIENCES AND TIPS ON THE USE OF HOME-BASED BIOLOGY EXPERIMENTS FOR INTERNAL ASSESSMENT

Author Name: 1. Megan Mae C. Chu 1. Eleen Hanna L. Labarez 1. Lara G. Reños 1.Jessica Rianne C. Velasco 1,2 Dave Arthur R. Robledo

Volume/Issue: 01/11

Country: Philippines

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: http://www.doi-ds.org/doilink/04.2021-39594468/UIJIR

Affiliation:

 ¹International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), Saint Jude Catholic School

²De La Salle University-Manila, Philippines

ABSTRACT

Abstract Experimentation has been an essential part of teaching and learning biological concepts. Science experiments provide opportunities for students to learn scientific concepts, experience natural phenomena, and explore the world around them. However, this COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the educational system in the Philippines, particularly science education. School facilities and laboratories are temporarily closed or inaccessible for teachers and students. These events hinder the conventional process of doing experiential learning activities, experiments, and scientific investigations. Because of this major disruption, the International Baccalaureate Organization released a memorandum that encourages teachers and students from IB World Schools to utilize other activities other than laboratory experiments such as online simulations, analysis of secondary data, or doing safe and appropriate experiments at home. In response, the biology students of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) of Saint Jude Catholic School utilized home-based biology experiments for their internal assessment. Students investigated the effects of different fruit extracts on gelatin denaturation, effects of kinds of milk on the volume and pH of cheese produced, effects of nutrient solutions on the growth of onion, and effects of the different wavelengths of light on the growth of an aquatic plant. Because of these unpredictable changes in the educational system, it is necessary to document these innovations and practices. This paper aimed to present students’ experiences on the use of home-based biology experiments. It was shown that household materials and kitchens can be utilized as alternative laboratories in remote learning. Furthermore, it was also revealed that they had trouble finding literature related to their topic. In the paper, they also emphasized the importance of choosing the right topic which fits your interest. In conclusion, home-based biology experiments are timely, relevant, and appropriate alternatives for the actual laboratory experiments.

Key words: Home-based biology experiments, Internal assessment, DP Biology