Integrating Smart Worksheets into mandatory pre-laboratory exercises increased exercise completion rates and...

Area of Science:

• Science Education
• Pedagogical Interventions

Background:

• Pre-laboratory exercises are crucial for student preparedness but suffer from low engagement due to time constraints and perceived complexity.
• Student feedback suggested clearer, more accessible exercises and mandatory completion to improve engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of interactive worksheets and revised assessment strategies on pre-laboratory exercise engagement and student performance.
• To identify barriers to pre-laboratory exercise completion and implement interventions to enhance student preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Two interventions were introduced: LearnSci Smart Worksheets (interactive, scaffolded) and a modified laboratory pass condition (80% engagement including pre-lab completion).
• Pre- and post-intervention data on pre-laboratory exercise completion rates and mean laboratory test marks were collected and analyzed.
• Engagement points were awarded for physical attendance and pre-laboratory exercise completion.

Main Results:

• Pre-laboratory exercise completion rates increased dramatically from 16 ± 11% to 84 ± 3% (Smart Worksheets) and 79 ± 4% (traditional exercises).
• Mean laboratory test marks significantly improved from 65 ± 11% pre-intervention to 72 ± 10% post-intervention.
• Post-intervention, pre-laboratory exercise completion showed a significant positive correlation with laboratory test marks.

Conclusions:

• Interactive worksheets and revised assessment strategies effectively increased student engagement with pre-laboratory exercises.
• Enhanced pre-laboratory exercise completion is linked to improved academic performance in first-year science laboratories.
• These interventions offer a scalable model for improving student preparedness and success in science practicals.