Experimenting on Natural Acid-Base Indicators: A Home-based Chemistry Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic as evaluated by Teachers

Abstract

This study determined the feasibility of conducting a laboratory experiment on natural acid-base indicators as a home-based activity. Seven high school teachers from Cebu in Central Visayas, Philippines conducted the home-based activity, evaluated the activity using a validated questionnaire, and were interviewed for opportunities and challenges. Results showed that the at-home activity was feasible and satisfactory, however inaccuracies and inconsistencies were found in the results of the experiment. Nevertheless, the teachers viewed the experiment to have opportunities for holistic development and some challenges concerning material unavailability, safety issues, among others. In conclusion, the home-based activity can be done by students as evaluated by their teachers. Refinement of the activity may be done to correct experimental errors and consider factors that may affect the accuracy of the experimental results. Teachers should also consider resource availability, adult supervision, and safety concerns when dealing with home-based activities.