Practical Investigations in Teaching of Science Subjects | UPSTU ProDev Hour

This ProDev Hour focused on practical investigations in science education, presented by Mr. Bonaventure, a physics curriculum specialist from NCDC. The presentation covered the aims and methods of teaching science subjects, emphasizing the importance of hands-on activities that go beyond simply teaching about science to actually teaching scientific methods. Mr. Bonaventure discussed the three main types of practical investigations: open-ended activities, extended activities, and structured investigations, while highlighting the essential skills learners develop through scientific inquiry including observing, measuring, data analysis, and safety practices. The presentation also covered the teacher’s role in supporting investigations through planning, guiding, and evaluating, while stressing that successful investigations don’t necessarily require achieving expected outcomes but rather following proper experimental procedures. The session concluded with a brief Q&A where participants discussed the importance of adopting modern practical investigation approaches rather than relying solely on following predetermined procedures from textbooks.