GROUP AND FRONTAL FORMS OF TEACHING PHYSICS – A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract

This paper presents research results based on different methods of teaching physics to middle school students, with a specific focus on comparing frontal instruction with group work organization. The research was conducted among second-year students attending the “Gimnazija Banja Luka” grammar school located in Banja Luka, during the 2023–2024 academic year, as part of lectures on the detection and effects of ionizing radiation. The goal of this research was to compare the results of students who attended classes taught through frontal instruction with those of students who participated in organized group work. The research results indicate that students who attended classes taught through frontal instruction were more successful and demonstrated greater knowledge on final tests related to the subject. It is concluded that frontal instruction is more efficient and successful in achieving the expected learning outcomes, while recommending different teaching approaches based on students' prior knowledge of the subject and individual characteristics in order to achieve better results. Further research is recommended to improve course materials and enhance knowledge acquisition among students.