ISSN: 2222-6990
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This study aimed to identify the understanding of genetics fundamental concepts of Form Four Biology students in Sabah, Malaysia. Quantitative data were collected using a two-tier multiple-choice achievement test instrument called the Genetics Fundamental Concepts Achievement Test (GFCAT), and students had to justify their answer choices. The fundamental concepts of genetics are grouped into four categories, i.e. i. the concept of genes, ii. the concept of chromosomes, iii. the concept of the relationship between genes, chromosomes, and DNA, as well as iv. the concept of the relationship of cell division and inheritance. Findings showed that there were 30 alternative frameworks related to genetic fundamental concepts with a low level of understanding of genetics fundamental concepts, mean score: 2.34 per 13. Students' understanding of genetics fundamental concepts was limited especially in genes and chromosomes. The percentage of students who answered correctly on the first tier of the items in GFCAT was high but the percentage showed a sharp decrease in the second tier. Therefore, interventions should be implemented as early as possible by educators to inculcate students' interest in mastering genetics fundamental concepts and at the same time prevent the alternative frameworks from deeply rooted among students.
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In-Text Citation: (Basri, & Abdullah, 2020)
To Cite this Article: Basri, S., & Abdullah, M. S. (2020). Level of Understanding and Alternative Frameworks in Genetics Fundamental Concepts among Form Four Biology Students in Sabah, Malaysia. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences. 10(9), 522-541.
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