Development and application of a concept test on the subject of stars

Abstract

The aim of this study is to develop a concept test on the subject of stars that is suitable for model analysis and to evaluate the conformity of this model. The study was performed using a screening model, which is a type of quantitative research method. The study also tried to fill the gap in the existing literature regarding the use of quantitative methods. To develop the test, existing studies on stars were first examined; interviews with candidates who were teachers were conducted; and finally, necessary amendments to test items were made after referring to experts’ opinions. To assure its validity and reliability, the test was applied to a total of 175 candidates who were studying at schools of education in the departments of science teaching of three different universities to become teachers; all candidates took astronomy courses and were educated on the subject matter. The final form of the test was comprised of 26 multiple-choice questions, each with 5 possible answers. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient of the test was calculated to be 0.735. In addition, the mean strength of the test was found to be 0.370 and the distinctiveness was found to be 0.390. Statistical analyses revealed that the concept test developed in this study is a valid and reliable test that conforms to the model analysis.