Notes: Teaching Methods | Science & Pedagogy Paper 2 for CTET & TET Exams - CTET & State TET PDF Download

The various methods employed in science teaching significantly impact teaching and learning at the school level. When conducted in a dull manner, the outcomes are often poor. Therefore, it is essential to adopt an integrated approach using various methods to make the science subject interesting to young, impressionable minds.

Introduction to Science Teaching Methods

A teacher imparts lessons, but the method structures how the lesson is taught effectively. Different methods of teaching science have been proposed by various educational thinkers. These methods can be categorized based on the participation of teachers and students:

Teacher-Centred Methods

These methods focus on the teacher as the center of the classroom, with students often passively receiving information through activities such as telling, memorizing, and recalling. The interaction mainly involves students asking or answering questions.

Child-Centred Methods

These methods focus on the needs, interests, and capabilities of students, encouraging them to actively participate. Teachers facilitate a conducive learning environment, where students explore problems, formulate hypotheses, and draw conclusions together.

Classification of Teaching Methods

Several methods are adopted in science teaching, such as lecture method, lecture-cum-demonstration method, observation method, laboratory methods, discovery method, and problem-solving method.

 Lecture Method

This method combines lecturing with discussion, promoting active verbal interaction between teachers and students. After the lecture, there is a discussion session where students can ask questions, share experiences, and seek clarifications.

• Encourages critical thinking and higher-order learning skills.
• Uses visual aids and ICT to enhance understanding.
• Emphasizes building mental pictures for better conceptual development.

Lecture-Cum-Demonstration Method

This method enhances the lecture by demonstrating scientific facts and principles practically in the classroom. The theoretical part is explained simultaneously, considering the students' age, capacity, and learning environment.

• Addresses the shortcomings of the lecture method.
• Provides practical visibility of scientific concepts.
• Promotes 'Learning by Doing' through practical demonstrations.