Relation between learning approaches of chemistry students and their achievement in general chemistry

Abstract

This research was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between students’ approaches to learning chemistry and their levels of achievement. The sample was comprised of 46 students in the first year of the Faculty of Sciences in Novi Sad (Serbia). The research involved two instruments: a knowledge test and an instrument for assessing the learning approach. The results showed that students have difficulties in understanding the factors that influence the chemical equilibrium, as well as with writing equations of the chemical reaction of salt hydrolysis. Most students use a deep approach to learning chemistry content. The deep approach significantly correlates with student achievement. On the basis of these results, it is concluded that is important to create a climate in the classroom that will encourage a deep approach to the study of chemistry.