Assessing Chemistry Laboratory Skills Through a Competency‑based Approach in High School Chemistry Course

Abstract

The present paper offers a competency-based approach to evaluate high school laboratory skills during a chemistry course. The Secretaría de Educación Pública (Mexico’s Ministry of Education) has identified experimental sciences specific competencies that are to be established in high school. This study investigated the following competencies: Formulating scientific questions, posing hypothesis, obtaining and registering information, applying safety norms in handling substances, materials and equipment, conducting practical activities appropriately in the laboratory, handling residues, collecting qualitative and quantitative data, contrasting results, communicating conclusions, and documenting information sources. An assessment tool where the students’ level of achievements was created. This assessment tool evaluated these competencies by considering the curriculum and the students’ graduate profile. Results indicated that by having a consistent evaluation plan and providing students with effective feedback, the students competency levels addressed in laboratory practical’s can be improved significantly.