Developing Student Competency in Exploring the Living World Through Research-Based Teaching: A Case Study.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Developing Student Competency in Exploring the Living World Through Research-Based Teaching: A Case Study.
Authors: Nguyen, Tien Thi Kieu ntktien@thptankhanh.edu.vn, Nguyen, Duan nguyenduan@hueuni.edu.vn, Dang, Thuy Thi Da dangdathuy@gmail.com
Source: International Journal of Instruction. Jan2026, Vol. 19 Issue 1, p775-798. 24p.
Subject Terms: *Critical thinking, *Constructivism (Education), *Biodiversity, *Active learning, *Learning by discovery, *Science education
Geographic Terms: Vietnam
Abstract: This study integrates the scientific research method into teaching practices to enhance students’ competency in exploring the living world at An Khanh High School in Can Tho City, Vietnam. Guided by constructivist learning theory, which emphasizes active knowledge construction through inquiry-based experiences, this study aligns research-based teaching with competency development. Progress across competency in exploring the living world components (problem identification, hypothesis development, planning, execution, and reporting) was assessed using a pre- and post-test quasi-experimental design. After three months of implementing the intervention (i.e., research-based teaching), this study found that high-performing students consistently outpaced their average-performing peers, benefiting from stronger foundational knowledge and self-directed learning skills. Moreover, the findings highlight that research-based teaching fosters critical thinking, creativity, and practical problem-solving, significantly improving students’ analytical and applied skills. This study underscores the transformative potential of active learning approaches in preparing students for science- and technology-driven education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Education Research Complete
Description
Abstract:This study integrates the scientific research method into teaching practices to enhance students’ competency in exploring the living world at An Khanh High School in Can Tho City, Vietnam. Guided by constructivist learning theory, which emphasizes active knowledge construction through inquiry-based experiences, this study aligns research-based teaching with competency development. Progress across competency in exploring the living world components (problem identification, hypothesis development, planning, execution, and reporting) was assessed using a pre- and post-test quasi-experimental design. After three months of implementing the intervention (i.e., research-based teaching), this study found that high-performing students consistently outpaced their average-performing peers, benefiting from stronger foundational knowledge and self-directed learning skills. Moreover, the findings highlight that research-based teaching fosters critical thinking, creativity, and practical problem-solving, significantly improving students’ analytical and applied skills. This study underscores the transformative potential of active learning approaches in preparing students for science- and technology-driven education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:1694609X
DOI:10.29333/iji.2026.19139a