Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) was used to
investigate the effect of problem based learning and traditionally designed
science instruction on students’ academic achievement and performance
skills in Genetics when students’ prior knowledge, prior performance skills,
logical thinking abilities and learning approaches are controlled. Results of
the study revealed that students in PBL classes had higher mean scores on
Genetics Achievement Test developed to measure academic achievement
and performance skills in the unit of genetics. Therefore, the PBL students
appeared to be better compared to the TDSI students in terms of genetics
understanding and at using relevant information in addressing the problem,
articulating uncertainties, organizing concepts, and interpreting information.