Needs Analysis for the Development of a STEM-Based Chemistry E-Module: Students’ Attitude toward STEM and Challenges in Chemistry Learning
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37134/jpsmm.vol16.1.1.2026Keywords:
STEM-based e-module, Acid, base and salt, Attitude toward STEM, Challenges in chemistry learningAbstract
The government aspired to achieve a 60:40 ratio of students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) over Arts (Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025). However, the Ministry of Education is still concerned about the declining interest in STEM subjects, which is why this goal has not been achieved. A needs analysis was conducted to identify whether developing a STEM-based e-module is necessary and to determine which Chemistry topics should be focused on. A total of 32 Form 4 Chemistry students from a secondary school in Kluang, Johor, are participating in this preliminary study. Two questionnaires were distributed to the respondents to investigate the students’ attitude toward STEM, and the challenges students face in learning Chemistry. The results showed three primary problems: a lack of 21st-century skills integration, insufficient classroom time for Chemistry learning, and limited access to useful learning materials. Furthermore, it was determined that the Acids, Bases, and Salts topic was the most challenging in the Form 4 Chemistry syllabus. Based on these findings, developing a STEM-based e-module focusing on this topic is crucial to improve students’ achievement and fostering creative thinking skills.
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