Enhancing Grade VI Students' Engagement in Science Through Hands-on Activities: An Action Research Study at Mendrelgang Primary School

This study explored the impact of hands-on science activities on the engagement, interest, confidence, and academic performance of Grade VI students at Mendrelgang Primary School, Tsirang District. It aimed to assess the effectiveness of experiential learning in improving students’ attitudes toward science, deepening conceptual understanding, and sustaining interest. A mixed-methods approach—surveys, interviews, and classroom observations—was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Thematic and inferential analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between variables. Following the intervention, students displayed increased curiosity, active participation, and enthusiasm for exploring scientific ideas. Improvements were also seen in confidence, problem-solving skills, independence, and collaborative learning. Academic performance rose, with average science scores increasing from 61.8% in 2023 to 66.3% in 2024. Triangulated data from various sources confirmed these positive changes. The findings highlight the value of hands-on, student-centered learning in making science more engaging, inclusive, and effective. This study provides practical insights for educators, curriculum planners, and policymakers, encouraging the integration of active, inquiry-based strategies into primary science education. Such approaches are essential for nurturing confident, capable, and motivated learners and for promoting deeper and lasting understanding of scientific concepts.