Realist hands-on learning approach and its contributions to learners’ conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills on solid geometry

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the application of a realist hands-on learning approach and its contributions to optimizing the solid geometry conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills of students. It employed a non-equivalent pre-/post-test quasi-experimental research design. The results showed that there was a statistically significant mean difference between the intervention group and the comparison group, with an effect size of d=.825 for the students’ solid geometry conceptual understanding and d=.930 for the students’ problem-solving skills. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed between students’ conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills in solid geometry, with an r2 of .6413. These indicate that the use of a realist hands-on approach positively contributes to optimizing learners’ conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. It also provides contextually relevant learning opportunities; therefore, it is recommended that teachers and concerned bodies employ a realist hands-on approach to make solid geometry learning concrete and practical.