A meta-analysis of research in learning process management innovations for the development of learning achievement in social studies of secondary school students
Abstract:
The purposes of this research were 1) to study researches in learning innovations for the development of learning achievement in social studies of secondary school students, 2) to study the characteristics of research affecting the effect sizes of learning innovations for the development of learning achievement in social studies of secondary school students, 3) to synthesize knowledge from learning innovations for the development of learning achievement in social studies of secondary school students. The synthesized researches were experimental researches published during 1987 2006, a total of 89 issues. The research tools covered research characteristic record and research quality evaluation. The data was 165 effect sizes calculated by Glass Method, 21 research characteristic variables, and 11 continuous variables. The data analysis included descriptive statistics, difference of average effect size analysis and multiple regression analysis. The results of research synthesis were: 1. Researches in learning innovations for the development of learning achievement in social studies of secondary school students were mostly published during 1987 1991 (34.8%), mostly by Srinakharinwirot University (43.8%). The program with the most number of researches was the secondary education (40.4%). The overall quality of the researches was at the highest level (an average of 3.56). 2. From the multiple regression analysis, it was found that research characteristic variables explained 47.1% of effect size. Two variables, namely, true control group pre-post test design and data collection period, were able to explain effect size at the significant level. 3. It was found from the research synthesis that the innovations affecting effect sizes ranked ascendingly by average effect sizes were as follows: (1) Activity innovation which was diversified, useful and able to develop learning achievement and social skills. It focused on teamwork enhancing interpersonal, planning and open-minded skills; (2) Curriculum innovation which applied local resources as teaching materials to interface programs together. It created understanding on natural resources and public awareness on local resources; (3) Teaching innovation which was diversified and adaptable. Teaching conditions and restrictions should be studied to maximize benefit.; (4) Technical and strategic innovation which enhanced students thinking process, provided that teachers provided assistance and advice, and set interesting and fun teaching process.; and (5) teaching material innovation which was diversified and should be properly used with students to maximize benefit.