What the study found
The study found that students had very high interest in mobile-assisted projectile motion experiments, but their academic performance was generally low. The relationship between interest and performance was very weak.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that mobile-assisted experiments can increase student engagement and motivation, but interest alone does not guarantee academic success. They suggest that engaging strategies should be paired with strong instructional scaffolding to support conceptual understanding.
What the researchers tested
The researchers used a descriptive-correlational design with 34 first-year Industrial Engineering students taking Physics for Engineers at Foundation University during the second semester of the 2024–2025 school year. Students did projectile motion experiments using mobile applications, a self-made experiment guide, and a projectile launcher, then completed a 40-item performance test and an interest questionnaire.
What worked and what didn't
Interest in the mobile-assisted experiments was rated very high, with an overall mean of 4.53, suggesting strong agreement that the approach made physics more engaging, enjoyable, and relevant. Performance was low, with a mean score of 72.6 in the “Did Not Meet Expectations” category, and 47.06% of students scored below the passing mark. The correlation between interest and performance was very weak (rs = 0.041).
What to keep in mind
The study involved only 34 students from one course at one university, so the findings are limited to that group. The abstract does not describe additional limitations beyond the scope of the sample and design.
Key points
- Students reported very high interest in the mobile-assisted projectile motion experiments.
- Academic performance was generally low, with a mean score of 72.6.
- Nearly half of the students, 47.06%, scored below the passing mark.
- Interest and performance were only very weakly related (rs = 0.041).
- The authors say engaging activities should be paired with instructional scaffolding.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Mobile-assisted experiments increased interest but not performance
- Authors:
- Brando Piñero, Jenilyn Entong, Jason Diputado
- Publication date:
- 2026-01-21
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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