THE USE OF INVIGILATED EXAMS IMPROVED STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS BIOPHYSICS: A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
Original Article
Authors : Manca Pajnič, Ljubiša Pađen, Judita Lea Krek, Željko Vlaisavljević, Veronika Kralj-Iglič
You can download the PDF version of the whole manuscript by clicking the button bellow
-
Manuscript keywords: learning, physics, academic performance, students, health, internet
Abstract
Introduction: Negative attitudes and insufficient motivation to study can contribute to poor
outcomes when teaching biophysics. Fear of failure can be alleviated by using invigilated
exams. The aim of this study was to investigate whether invigilated exams impact students’
self-reported effort to study, their attitudes, and the factors that promote academic
performance.
Methods: A single-group post-test quasi-experimental study was conducted to explore the
attitudes of a sample population. Data was collected using a questionnaire specifically
developed for this study. The sample consisted of 472 students from four consecutive
academic years (generations). Descriptive statistical methods were applied for data analysis,
and average values were compared using the Student’s t-test.
Results: Over 80% of students in the first generation reported a high level of fear of failure.
After the introduction of new examination methods, this number decreased significantly by
more than 20% (p < 0.001, P = 1). Concurrently, the time spent studying increased by over
40% (p = 0.006, P = 88). Furthermore, nearly all students (99%) believed that using
information and communication technology (ICT) and social networks enhanced their
academic success.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that information and communication technology have a
positive, though limited, effect on students’ motivation to learn biophysics and their attitudes
toward the subject.
Corresponding Author: Manca Pajnič, e-mail: manca.pajnic@zf.uni-lj.si