Concept mapping and pupils’ learning in primary science in Singapore

Discussion

Quantitative analysis

Since the pupils in the control and experimental classes of the gifted and main stream groups were streamed into their current classes based on their primary three results, the control and experimental classes in each group were taken as statistically equivalent and the effect of pupils' prior knowledge on subsequent learning was assumed to be the same. With reference to the tables on Statistical analysis of pre and post test results under appendix , all post tests carried out showed significant differences between the experimental and control group's scores. The post tests showed a trend towards better results in the experimental group for both streams. The increments in means between pre and post tests of the experimental group although small were nevertheless significant. The increment in mean results of the continual assessment over post tests provided an indication and a measure of how well retention of concepts has taken place.