The observation of living animals in school laboratories provides authentic views of biological
research. Various studies stress the importance of primary experiences in biology classes. However,
educational films may serve as an alternative in some cases. The aim of this study was to investigate
student motivation before and after treatments, including (1) an educational film, (2) a hands-on
activity with living animals accompanied by an educational film and (3) a hands-on activity with living
animals. We investigated the influence of teaching method, gender and class level on student
motivation and learning enjoyment. In all treatments, Temnothorax ants were addressed, which can be
easily kept and observed. This paper is within the scope of a longitudinal project based on the concept
of ‘ant research’ in class. Students (N = 140) from six classes (lower and intermediate secondary school
levels) participated in the study. Student motivation was measured using a two-stage test design,
including a standardised questionnaire on current motivation and a test on learning enjoyment.
The findings of this study suggest that the younger students prefer hands-on activities, while students
at an intermediate secondary school level are more interested in video-based learning. Since the
combination of hands-on activity and video yielded the best results, the potential of using videos as
facilitators for hands-on learning is discussed.

• Hands-on or Video-based Learning with ANTicipation? A Comparative Approach to Identifying Student Motivation and Learning Enjoyment During a Lesson about Ants

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