Rl. Doran et al., SCIENCE LABORATORY SKILLS AMONG GRADE-9 STUDENTS IN WESTERN-AUSTRALIA, International journal of science education, 17(1), 1995, pp. 27-44
A science laboratory practical skills test based on an optional instru
ment for the Second International Science Study was administered to a
sample of Australian grade 9 students. The data were used to gauge the
level of overall practical performance, as well as to identify specif
ic errors and misconceptions. The gender differences commonly found in
science achievement were absent when practical performance was used a
s the criterion. Correlates of practical skill performance were found
to include the amount of homework and television viewing, the home env
ironment and emphasis on personalization, investigation and organizati
on within the classroom environment.