Learning Through Inquiry and Investigation: A Critical Analysis of the Effectiveness of Practical Work at Undergraduate Level

Laboratories are a core requirement, in particular in science education for skill training and better understanding of concepts. The importance of good quality practical work is widely accepted for improvement of scientific skills and promoting the scientific culture amongst students, thereby leading to improved learning. Through this study, an effort was made to reflect and explore these often-raised concerns by assessing and mapping the current situation with inputs from stakeholders in developing students' knowledge and skills at the undergraduate level. A survey was conducted to identify and understand students' requirements, expectations, experiences and opinions regarding the practical work being done in undergraduate science laboratories in University of Delhi. The students' expectations in identifying the significant characteristics and requirements that demonstrate effective lab work were derived from this data.