ISSN 1017-2548(Print)
ISSN 2234-8530(Online)
Volume 43, Number 5
JKCSEZ 43(5)
October 20, 1999 

The study investigated and analyzed the middle school student's science textbook learning methods and strategies. The Preferred Mehtod of Study (PMOS)and a clinical interview method were utilized. Results indicate that there is a meaningful and significant positive correlation between the number of times students read a chapter of the science textbook and their science grade point. Students do not tend to alter learning strategies dependent upon the subject matter studied, but easily alter stratgies dependent upon the types of the test. Most students could not construct "organiztional tools" such as a summary, a chart, a talbe, or a figure when they study textbook, but might pursure and prefer only one method when they choose their learning strategise. Very few students (less than 1%) among those queried consciously try to connect between prior knowledge and new concepts in the textbook. Even though students choose the textbook for learning science in the beginning, they prefer to stick to reference and exercise materials. Therefore, detailed and direct studise of the student's learning methods and strategies, as well as research on cognitive psychology and motivational psychology, are necessary in order to develop a new textbook with student-based learning materials. By understanding the student's konwledge level through investigation of his or her learning style, an effective science education program can be realized. Finally, the role of the textbook as a tezching/learning material can be maximized gy investigating and understanding the student's learning method and strategy with emphasis on reciprocal action between textbooks.