The profile of middle school students in experimental planning skills through inquiry training model on heat transfer

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the experimental planning skills in middle school students on the topic of heat transfer through Inquiry Training Model (ITM) with laboratory activity. This research used descriptive method with A number of middle school students (n=21) in Bone was involved as participants in this study. Data was collected through observation sheets on science process skills. Research finding shows that the experimental planning skills of the participants varied in a sense of groups and all was well developed (> 90%) after having experience learning on heat transfer through ITM. It can be shown in the data collected phase through experimentation and filled-in student worksheet, Topic of heat transfer was the last period of the whole heat topic carried out through ITM. The students carried out the investigation without following the experimental design presented in the student' workbook, instead they were active in discussions to determine the tools and materials, as well as setting the pace of work independently based on the agreement in their group, so they have had experience in planning experiments. This activity shows the various students 'creativity in designing an experiment and from that those creations the students' like scientists in proving, discovery and developing invention potency that have been there before.