The Effectiveness of the Experimental Science Curriculum Based on the Depth of Knowledge on the Level of Cognitive Complexity of Learners in the Experimental Science Course

The purpose of this study was to investigate how an experiential science curriculum, based on depth of knowledge, affects the cognitive complexity level of students in the experimental science course. The researcherws employed a quasi-experimental pre-test, post-test design with a control group. The sample of the study involved 46 fifth-grade male students in Famenin city, chosen through cluster sampling and randomly assigned to either the control or experimental group. A cognitive complexity test, developed by the researchers, was used to assess the fifth-grade experiential science curriculum. Initially, both groups underwent a pre-test to measure cognitive complexity in the science lesson. The experimental group followed the experiential science curriculum utilizing a depth of knowledge model, while the control group received traditional instruction. After the intervention, a post-test evaluating cognitive complexity in science was given to both groups. Covariance analysis of the data (F(1,43)=526/36; p<0/05, p=0/001) indicated a significant difference in post-test cognitive complexity scores between the two groups, demonstrating a positive impact of the experiential science curriculum, based on depth of knowledge, on the cognitive development of students in the science curriculum