Critical evaluation Of G.C.E (A/L) Physics practical In Akkaraipattu and Kalmunai education zones

Abstract

Physics experiments are very much helpful to understand the theoretical concepts clearly . They provide clarification and consolidation of theories they studied. Accordingly physics practical are included in the G.C.E. (A|L) physics syllabus in schools in Sri Lanka. This research aims mainly to evaluate G.C.E. (AIL) physics practical process at the school in Akkaraipattu and Kalmunai Education Zones. Seven 1AB schools were selected for this study in Akkaraipattu and Kalmunai education zones. Simple scientific methods were adopted to analyze the data. Related data were collected from students, teachers , principals and lab assistants . The researcher finds that around fifty percentage of the scheduled practical are conducted in these selected schools. Most of the practical are carried out from unit 1 to unit 3 in grade 12. Only a few students actively participate in the practical classes, as there is no test in final G.C.E (A|L) examination. Major problems found in conducting physics practicals in these schools were lack of facilities, poor maintenance and unavailability of lab attendants. The researcher found that experiments methods must be reorganized and the chances should be provided to all students equally in a school.