The Effect of Simple Practicum on Conceptual Understanding

Study Case The Effect of Simple Practicum on Conceptual Understanding and Experimental Skills in Series and Parallel Electrical Circuits Michael Kurniawan (2018123456) University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45221, United States kurniaml@mail.uc.edu Abstract This study aims to analyze students' understanding of the concepts of series and parallel electrical circuits through simple practicum activities in basic science learning. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the results show that these simple laboratory activities help students understand basic electrical principles and improve their ability to solve problems involving series and parallel circuits. These practical activities have also been proven to strengthen learning motivation, material comprehension, emotional skills, learning objectives, and practical skills in assembling and measuring electrical components. Thus, simple experiments are an effective strategy for deepening students' understanding of electrical circuit concepts in science classes and encouraging them to participate more actively in the learning process. Keywords: Simple Practical, Series Circuit, Parallel Circuit, Electricity INTRODUCTION Natural Science is not merely a field that can be studied through observation and reading, but also involves concepts that are always associated with real natural phenomena [1]. In science learning at the university level, students engage in psychomotor and cognitive activities through experiments or laboratory-based learning activities, which develop their scientific thinking skills. As stated by Michael Johnson [2], when students are actively involved in solving the problems they encounter, the learning process becomes more meaningful. This problem-based approach allows students to gain a deeper understanding through direct involvement in scientific analysis MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 1 Study Case and exploration. However, in practice, the use of problem-based learning models in many educational institutions in Indonesia is still limited. Most lecturers still rely on conventional teacher-centered methods, such as lectures. This approach often causes students to lose interest and quickly become bored. To overcome this, educators at the University of Cincinnati are encouraged to integrate a problem-based learning paradigm that emphasizes direct experience and active student involvement. A simple experiment-based learning model is an appropriate strategy for science learning [3]. In this approach, students conduct experiments independently to understand concepts through real experiences. This process includes observing objects, carrying out procedures, evaluating results, and drawing conclusions. According to David Yanto [4], electricity is a form of energy that can be used to operate machines, generate heat, or emit light, either through chemical reactions or friction. In general, electricity is a physical phenomenon related to the existence and movement of electric charges. Electricity can generate radio waves and various forms of electromagnetic radiation [5]. Electrical energy can be obtained in two main ways: friction between two objects or chemical reactions that generate energy. Energy stored in charged objects is called static electricity, while dynamic electricity uses energy sources such as batteries to power electronic circuits [6]. An electrical circuit is a closed system that connects various components to conduct current. In general, there are two types of circuits, namely series circuits and parallel circuits [7]. In a series circuit, electric current flows through each load in sequence so that if one load is disconnected, the current in the entire circuit is also disconnected. Conversely, in a parallel circuit, each branch has its own current path, so that if one branch is disconnected, the other branches continue to function [8]. Previous research by Sarah Thompson [9] entitled “Implementation of Simple Experiments in Elementary Science Education” shows that the application of simple experiments in science teaching can improve students' focus and understanding of the material. Based on these findings, this study aims to analyze the application of simple experiments in understanding the concepts of series and parallel circuits, differentiate their characteristics, and identify their application in everyday life. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 2 Study Case METHOD This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach to examine the understanding of series and parallel circuits through simple practical experiments. This approach emphasizes a deep understanding of phenomena, concepts, and perceptions that cannot be measured quantitatively [10]. The main objective of this method is to produce descriptive data in the form of written narratives that describe the participants’ experiences and understanding. According to Sugiyono [11], qualitative research does not involve statistical analysis but focuses on interpreting the meaning behind the data obtained. This approach is used to reveal empirical facts objectively and scientifically based on academic logic and methodology relevant to the field of study [12]. Figure 1. Descriptive Qualitative Research Flowchart In the context of this study, the descriptive qualitative approach is considered most appropriate for analyzing how students understand and apply the concepts of series and parallel circuits in science learning. The main objective of this study is to provide new insights into the effectiveness of simple practicums in strengthening students' understanding of basic electrical concepts at the university level. The experiment was conducted using concrete media in the form of basic electrical equipment to build simple series and parallel circuits. The primary data source was the students, while secondary data was obtained from textbooks, scientific journals, research archives, and academic references related to the topic of electrical circuit experiments [13]. Data analysis was performed using the Miles and Huberman Model, which includes four main stages: MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 3 Study Case 1. Data collection – through interviews, observation, and documentation. 2. Data reduction – selecting and simplifying relevant information. 3. Data presentation – compiling data in a narrative form for easy understanding. 4. Drawing conclusions – generating new findings and clarifying the phenomenon being studied [14]. Figure 2. Diagram of Data Analysis Stages According to Miles and Huberman DISCUSSION The Concepts of Series and Parallel Electrical Circuits An electrical circuit is a closed path consisting of a number of interconnected components that allow electric current to flow [7]. The main components in a circuit include: a) Power source, which is a device that generates electrical energy, such as a battery or DC power source; b) Electrical conductor, which is a conductive material, such as copper wire, that carries electric current; c) Electrical loads, which are devices that use electrical energy, such as lamps or resistors. These three components are interdependent. The electrical distribution system functions to channel current from the voltage source to various loads, regulate the amount of current, and distribute energy to each component. In general, there are two main types of configurations in electrical systems, namely series circuits and parallel circuits. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 4 Study Case Series Electrical Circuit A series electrical circuit is a system in which components are arranged sequentially in a single current path. The basic principle of this circuit is: if one light is on, all other lights will also be on; however, if one light goes out, the entire system will be disconnected. In everyday applications, series circuits are often used in flashlights and some types of decorative string lights. The main advantages of series circuits are that they are easy to assemble due to their simple design and low manufacturing costs because they require few components. In addition, the damage inspection process is faster because there are a limited number of connections. However, the disadvantages are: a) If one component fails, the entire system will not function. b) The power received by each component differs, depending on the number of loads connected. c) Energy efficiency is lower due to high total resistance. Parallel Electrical Circuit A parallel circuit is a system in which components are arranged in parallel and each branch has its own current path. The working principle is that when one lamp is turned on, the other lamps can still turn on even if one of the lamps is turned off. Common applications of parallel circuits can be found in household lighting systems, traffic lights, and computer keyboard indicator panels. The advantages of parallel circuits include: a) Lower total resistance, allowing current to flow more efficiently to each component. b) Each component works independently; if one fails, the other components continue to function. However, the disadvantages are: a) Higher manufacturing costs because they require more wires and connections. b) The circuit structure is more complex, requiring greater precision in assembly. The differences between these two types of circuits can be summarized as follows: series circuits use a single current path with different voltages at each load, while parallel circuits have more than one current path and the same voltage at each branch. In terms of installation, series circuits are easier to install and more cable-efficient, while parallel circuits are more wasteful of cable but more functionally efficient. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 5 Study Case Implementation of Series and Parallel Electrical Circuit Practicum The practicum aims to improve students' understanding of series and parallel circuit concepts through simple experiments involving variations in battery size and lamp power. The equipment used in the practicum includes: a) Scissors b) Utility knife c) Hot glue gun d) Ruler Meanwhile, the materials used include: a) 4 AA batteries (1.5 volts) b) 1.5 meters of copper wire c) A 30 × 30 cm cardboard board d) Electrical tape e) 4 mini lights (maximum 2.5 watts) f) 3 switches g) 4 lamp holders Steps for the Series Circuit Experiment a) Prepare the red (positive) and blue (negative) wires. Cut the red wire into three pieces (10 cm each) and the blue wire into two pieces (10 cm each). b) Strip about 1 cm of the wire ends so that the copper strands are visible. c) Prepare two light bulbs and two lamp holders. d) Connect the first bulb using red wires on both sides, then connect the second bulb with a blue wire on the left side and a red wire on the right side. e) Connect one side of the first bulb to the switch terminal, then the other side to the blue wire from the second bulb. f) Connect the entire circuit to the battery holder, ensuring the correct polarity of the wires (red to positive, blue to negative). g) Attach the entire circuit to the cardboard board using tape to stabilize the position. h) Ensure all connections are properly installed before turning on the power. i) Observe the performance of the lights under the following conditions: • 2 batteries (3 volts) and 2 lights (5 watts) • 1 battery (1.5 volts) and 2 lights (5 watts) MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 6 Study Case • 2 batteries (3 volts) and 1 light bulb (2.5 watts) j) Record all observations. Steps for Parallel Circuit Practical a) Prepare red (positive) and blue (negative) wires. Cut the red cable into 12 cm (2 pieces), 8 cm (2 pieces), and 4 cm (2 pieces) lengths. Cut the blue cable into 12 cm (2 pieces) and 8 cm (2 pieces) lengths. b) Strip the ends of the cables about 1 cm so that the copper fibers are visible. c) Prepare two light bulbs and two light holders. d) Attach the battery holder to the cardboard using hot glue. e) Assemble the first circuit by connecting the red wires (4 cm and 8 cm) and the blue wire (8 cm) to the first light bulb via the switch. f) Repeat the same process for the second circuit. g) Connect the two circuits with a long red wire (12 cm) for the positive side and a long blue wire (12 cm) for the negative side. h) Connect the entire system to the battery holder, paying attention to the polarity. i) Attach the circuit to the cardboard board using tape to stabilize it. j) Make sure the connections are correct before turning on the power. k) Observe the performance of the lights under the following conditions: • 2 batteries (3 volts) and 2 lights (5 watts) • 1 battery (1.5 volts) and 2 lights (5 watts) • 2 batteries (3 volts) and 1 light (2.5 watts) l) Record the observation results carefully. Results of the Series and Parallel Electrical Circuit Experiment In the first series circuit experiment, when two batteries (3 volts) were connected to two lights (5 watts) and the switch was turned on, both lights shone brightly. This is because each battery provides the same power to the bulb, and because all the bulbs are connected in one line, the current flowing increases as the power source increases, producing brighter light. Figure 5. First Series Circuit Experiment MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 7 Study Case In the second experiment, using two batteries (3 volts) and one light bulb (2.5 watts), when the switch was turned on, the light bulb did not ur non. This phenomenon demonstrates the basic principle of a series circuit, namely that if one component does not function, the entire circuit is disconnected and electric current cannot flow. Figure 6. Series Circuit Experiment Two The third experiment used one battery (1.5 volts) and two lights (5 watts). When the switch was turned on, both lights glowed dimly. This happened because the current flowing was smaller than what was needed to turn on the lights optimally. In a series circuit, each component is interdependent and shares the same current, so the total resistance increases and the voltage received by each light decreases. Figure 7. Third Series Circuit Experiment For the parallel circuit experiment, the results were different. In the first experiment, with two batteries (3 volts) and two lights (5 watts), when the switch was turned on, the lights shone brightly. This is because each light is connected directly to the power source and receives the same amount of electric current. Figure 8. Parallel Circuit Experiment First Experiment MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 8 Study Case In the second experiment, using two batteries (3 volts) and one lamp (2.5 watts), the results showed very bright light. This happened because the lamp in the parallel circuit received full current from the power source without having to share with other components. Figure 9. Parallel Circuit Experiment 2 The third experiment used one battery (1.5 volts) and two lights (5 watts). When the switch was turned on, both lights appeared dim. Although each light received the same voltage, the total current from the power source was divided into two branches, so the current received by each light was reduced. Figure 10. Parallel Circuit Experiment Third Experiment The overall results of the simple practical observations on series and parallel electrical circuits are presented in Table 1 below. Table 1. Results of Practical Observations on Series and Parallel Circuits Advantages and Disadvantages of Series and Parallel Electrical Circuits Each type of circuit has its own advantages and disadvantages. Series circuits have MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 9 Study Case the advantage of being easy to assemble because of their simple design and require fewer components, making them more economical. Troubleshooting is also easier because there are fewer connections. However, the main disadvantage of this circuit is that if one component fails, the entire system stops working. In addition, electrical current efficiency is low because total resistance increases as components are added. Meanwhile, parallel circuits have low resistance so that each component can work independently without affecting the performance of other components. If one light is damaged, the other lights will remain on. However, the disadvantage is that the cost is higher because it requires more wires and connections, and the assembly is more complex. The main differences between these two types of circuits include: a) Component arrangement: Series circuits are arranged in sequence, while parallel circuits are arranged in parallel. b) Material efficiency: Series circuits are more economical in terms of wiring and switches, while parallel circuits are more wasteful. c) Light intensity: In a series circuit, the intensity of each light bulb is different, while in a parallel circuit, all light bulbs shine with the same intensity. d) System resilience: In a series circuit, if one light bulb goes out, all the light bulbs go out, while in a parallel circuit, the other light bulbs remain lit. e) Voltage and current paths: The voltage in a series circuit is different for each component, while in a parallel circuit the voltage is the same. A series circuit has only one current path, while a parallel circuit has more than one path. Impact of Implementing a Simple Practicum Learning Model A simple practicum-based learning model has been proven effective in improving student learning outcomes, especially in understanding the concepts of series and parallel electrical circuits. This approach emphasizes active student involvement through direct experimentation and group collaboration, as implemented at the University of Cincinnati. Improved Material Comprehension Through hands-on practice, students can gain a deeper understanding of electrical concepts because they can observe and experience the phenomena being studied firsthand. Experiments help them develop data analysis skills and draw scientific conclusions based on the results of the experiments. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 10 Study Case Increased Interest in Learning Interactive and contextual learning models increase students' curiosity and motivation. Simple practicums make the learning process more enjoyable and relevant to everyday experiences, thereby encouraging active participation. Development of Psychomotor Skills Students are trained in technical skills such as assembling circuits, measuring current, and using electrical tools correctly. These activities improve hand-eye coordination, accuracy, and understanding of electrical system mechanisms. Strengthening Affective Aspects Through collaboration and exploration in experiments, students develop scientific attitudes, teamwork, and confidence in problem solving. Practicals also foster responsibility and perseverance in learning. Improvement of Learning Outcomes Active involvement in practicum activities strengthens theoretical understanding and improves student academic performance. Experiments encourage critical thinking, scientific communication, and continuous learning motivation [1]. Overall, the application of a simple practicum-based learning model in the study of series and parallel electrical circuits contributes significantly to improving students' knowledge, skills, and scientific attitudes. CONCLUSION Based on the results and discussion, it can be concluded that a series electrical circuit consists of components arranged in sequence so that current flows through only one path, while a parallel circuit has branches with current flow divided into each path. Series circuits are simpler and more cost-effective, but less efficient and prone to failure if one component is damaged. Conversely, parallel circuits have more stable and efficient performance but require more complex costs and assembly. The results of the experiment show that the combination of the number of batteries and lights affects the intensity of the light produced. The simple practicum learning model has been proven to be effective in improving conceptual understanding, interest in learning, psychomotor, affective, and learning outcomes of students. Therefore, this simple practicum approach is worthy of being used as an effective experience-based learning strategy in science education in the United States. MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 11 Study Case REFERENCE MICHAEL KURNIAWAN 12