Experiential Learning in Science for Developing Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) & Scientific Temper: A Literature Review

Abstract

The quality teaching learning depends on how students are actively engaged in the learning process. Science classes should always create a spark among students and motivate them to think critically and design creatively. This review paper synthesizes findings from 51 research studies that includes 30 international studies and 21 national studies on experiential learning. The study specifically explores the impact of experiential learning on the development of HOTS, Scientific temper among the secondary students in science. Some selective studies are also taken from other subjects. The study has structured around five essential themes emerged from the reviewed literatures; the concept of experiential learning, its impact on the effectiveness of science teaching learning, its effectiveness in the development of HOTS as well as scientific temper among students & its effectiveness in other subjects. The critical analysis reveals positive outcomes in the science learning following experiential learning approach though there are significant obstacles in implementing this approach in all schools and for all students, The study establishes a foundation for understanding how direct, hands-on engagement with scientific concepts can lead to improved critical thinking and scientific curiosity, compared to traditional rote learning. The study concludes that experiential learning has a positive effect on the achievement of science in secondary stage and suggests for developing comprehensive strategy and lesson plan that can lead higher order thinking Skill and scientific temper development. Further studies need to be carried out on the effectiveness of experiential learning on the development of HOTS in aspects like creativity and evaluation as well as on Scientific temper in aspects like respect for evidence, honesty & integrity, perseverance, and scepticism among students as very few studies are there in these areas.