An Analysis Study of Omani Physics Textbooks in View of the National Science Education Standards

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the adherence of Omani physics textbooks (9-12) to the National Science Education Standards (NSES). A content analysis tool was developed. The validity of the tool was determined through a panel of experts, and the reliability was estimated using Kappa Coefficient giving a value of 0.90. The results revealed that the physics contents in the science textbooks for the grades nine to twelve adhered to the standards in the following order: First, the Unifying Concepts and Processes Standard in percentage of (34.98%). Second physical Science Standard in percentage of (16.42%). Third Science as Inquiry Standard in percentage of (15.02%). Fourth History and Nature of Science standards in percentage of (12.39%). Fifth Science and Technology standard in percentage of (10.69%). There was a clear ignorance for the Science in Personal and Social Perspectives Science Standard and Earth and Space Science Standard, where settled in the final order in the percentage of (8.70%) & (1.80%), respectively. Accordingly, the study recommended giving more attention to the National Science Education Standards when developing physics curriculum, and conducting further relevant research.