The Relationship Between Application of Moral Values and Behaviour among Secondary School Students to the Effectiveness of Scientific Investigation

Abstract

Studies on applying moral values and behaviour may increase student engagement in science subjects. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the application of values and student behaviour toward the effectiveness of scientific investigation. The application of moral values is important among students in all aspects. This study focuses on applying moral values to students when conducting scientific investigations. These virtues can be applied across curriculum elements when teachers guide students in the laboratory or classroom. Correlational and descriptive designs were used in this study. This study also was conducted using a quantitative method. The sample was selected based on random sampling. High school students in Forms One, Two and Four were involved. One hundred and forty students participated as the study sample. The application of student values and behaviour uses a questionnaire containing a Likert scale, while scientific skills use objective questions containing fifteen answer options. Major findings for this study shown in students’ attitude when not all students enjoy scientific investigation. Students show a high level of behaviour (awareness, knowledge, and courage). Finally, this study found no significant relationship between the application of values and student behaviour towards the effectiveness of scientific investigation. As science textbooks state, moral values and student behaviour are related to the scientific investigation process. The next researcher should find out what these elements contribute to science learning.