The role of practical laboratory work in stimulating students’ interest in natural sciences

Ramadani, Fehmi and Çibukçiu, Blerina and Ismajli, Betim and Pejchinovska, Milena (2026) The role of practical laboratory work in stimulating students’ interest in natural sciences. Frontiers in Education, 11. ISSN 2504-284X

Text FINALNO objaveno feduc-11-1726102.pdf Download (209kB)

Abstract

This study examines the role of practical laboratory work in stimulating students’ motivation and perceived learning effectiveness in natural science subjects in lower secondary schools in the Republic of Kosovo. Using quantitative research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 168 science teachers and 183 seventh grade students across 24 public lower secondary schools. The study focuses on the implementation of laboratory work, the availability and quality of laboratory equipment, and students’ perceptions of learning in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, within the framework of the
national curriculum. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to examine associations between laboratory practices, instructional conditions, and student motivation. The findings show that participation in laboratory
activities is positively associated with higher levels of student motivation and perceived learning effectiveness, with statistically significant differences across subjects. Chemistry demonstrates the strongest perceived benefits
when laboratory conditions are adequate, whereas limitations in equipment and infrastructure constrain effective implementation in Physics and Biology.
Overall, the results underline the pedagogical value of practical laboratory work while highlighting structural inequalities in access to laboratory resources. The
study offers evidence-based recommendations for curriculum implementation, teacher professional development, and institutional investment to support more equitable laboratory-based science education in lower secondary schools.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	Scientific Fields (Frascati) > Social Sciences > Educational sciences Scientific Fields (Frascati) > Social Sciences > Other social sciences
Divisions:	Faculty of Education
Depositing User:	Prof. d-r Milena Pejchinovska
Date Deposited:	17 Mar 2026 19:41
Last Modified:	17 Mar 2026 19:41
URI:	https://eprints.uklo.edu.mk/id/eprint/11456

Actions (login required)

View Item