Exploring the Effects of Video-based Multimedia instructional strategies on students’ performance in Astrophysics in Rwandan Secondary School

Abstract

Now, more than ever before, innovative teaching methodology in STEM education has been a matter of concern. Previous research abounds settling the importance of technology-based methodology in STEM education. This study seeks to explore the effects of video-based multimedia (VBM) on students’ performance in astrophysics in certain scientific schools in Rwanda. The current study presents the findings of a quasi-experiment non-equivalent control group carried out from eight scientific schools where 294 students in science combination with physics as a major subject were purposively selected. Pre-test and post-test were used to collect data using an astrophysics achievement test (AAT) with a Cornbanch Alpha of 0.87. The results of the study showed the widespread effects of VBM in enhancing the students’ performance in astrophysics. The results show that also girls did marginally well compared to boys, however, special attention is needed in rural-based schools. The findings of this study offer a suggestion on the essential to integrate VBM in teaching physics.