Abstract
The study’s aim is to investigate the effectiveness of the Good & Lavoie model in acquiring geographical concepts and developing reflective thinking among eighth-grade female students. The research sample consisted of 69 students, purposively chosen from Zakho city population for the 2024–2025 academic year. he sample was divided into two groups: an experimental group consisting of 37 students, who were taught using the Good & Lavoie model, and a control group consisting of 32 students, who were taught the same material employing the traditional method. The researchers confirmed the equivalence between the groups in variables such as age, IQ, previous year’s social sciences grades, overall GPA, and parents’ level of education.To accomplish the research aims and test its main and sub-hypotheses, the researchers developed two tools:A Geographic Concepts Acquisition Test, wrapped up with 30 objective items (matching and questions of triple-choice multiple-choice) based on concept elements (definition, example, application).A Reflective Thinking Skills Test, consisting of 35 items of triple-choice multiple-choice.Both tools showed validity,reliability,and appropriate psychometric properties. The researchers then constructed lesson plans for both groups and gave their instruction to the designated subject teacher. After the experiment, the primary researcher administered the tests to the main sample, and the data were analyzed employing suitable statistical methods. The results stated:
1. A statistically significant difference in the mean scores of geographic concept acquisition between the experimental and control groups, favoring the experimental group that were taught using the Good & Lavoie model.
2. A statistically significant difference in the mean scores of reflective thinking skills development between the experimental and control groups, favoring the experimental group.
Based on the findings, the researchers presented conclusions, recommendations , and suggestions for future studies.
Keywords:Good & Lavoie model,concept acquisition, reflective thinking.
See More
See Less