Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to find out the effectiveness of using virtual laboratories in acquiring scientific thinking skills and developing attitude for third grade intermediate students in Yanbu Governorate. Methods: In science, to achieve this, the study used the mixed method, which combines the quantitative method through the use of the semi-experimental research method with a one-group design based on the pre and post-test, and the qualitative method based on the descriptive method. The study sample consisted of (8) female students who were chosen in an intentional manner. The study tools consisted of a test of scientific thinking skills and an interview (focused group) that was conducted with the experimental group after treatment as a tool to understand the students' attitudes towards using the virtual laboratory and their opinions in particular in teaching floating. Results: The results of the study showed that there were statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the students in the pre and post-tests in scientific thinking skills in favour of the post application. The results also showed a positive attitude of the students towards using the virtual laboratory. This means that the effectiveness of using virtual laboratories is in acquiring the third intermediate grade students' scientific thinking skills and developing their attitudes towards using the virtual laboratory in learning science. Conclusions: The study came out with several recommendations, the most important of which is the development of a training plan to develop the skill of science students on the practice and use of the virtual laboratory, and the inclusion of science books in activities and exercises that encourage male and female students to use the virtual laboratory in teaching and learning science and encourage them to do so.