Intellectual Science and Mathematics Program: Improving Students’ Interest in Learning Science and Mathematics

The discontinuities between students’ experiences in the Science and Mathematics lessons at school with the realities, and the educators’ oblivion at looking into the crucial influences of experiences outside the school have on students’ beliefs, attitudes and motivations to learn have caused in the decline of students’ performances and interests to learn these two subjects in schools. Considering this emerging concern, the Science and Technology Department, Faculty of Education, UiTM has introduced Intellectual Science and Mathematics Program (I-SMP) designed for primary school students to acquire Science and Mathematics, knowledge and skills differently from how learning takes place in the normal classroom. This study was carried out to determine the perception and engagement of primary school students in learning Science and Mathematics through the I-SMP. The study employed mixed approach combining the quantitative and qualitative methods. A total of 160 Standard Six students were purposely selected as respondents. A set of questionnaire was designed to gather the students’ perception and motivation after they experienced the I-SMP. The quantitative data were supported by the data recorded from the observation and the informal interview during the program. The study indicates that, I-SMP is able to promote positive perceptions and improve students’ attitude towards learning. The consolidation of the data gathered had proven I-SMP’s capability in enhancing students’ engagement in learning the two subjects. The interactive inquiry approach infused with hands-on and interesting outdoor activities succeeded in triggering students’ readiness to learn made visible through their high level of engagement in learning. It is recommended that teachers who are teaching Science and Mathematics adapt this innovative and creative method towards a more effective delivery.