Tursumbekova A.2026-09-092026-09-092026Tursumbekova A / The Impact of STEM Integration on Secondary School Students' Conceptual Understanding in Physics / SDU Universityhttps://repository.sdu.edu.kz/handle/123456789/2655This study examines the effect of STEM-integrated instruction on 9th-grade students' conceptual understanding of Newtonian mechanics in Kazakhstan. Using a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with 74 students at Al-Farabi Specialized Lyceum, the experimental group (n = 34) received six weeks of STEM-integrated instruction while the control group (n = 40) followed traditional teaching. Conceptual understanding was measured via the Force Concept Inventory (FCI). Results showed that the STEM group significantly outperformed the control group, achieving a medium normalised gain compared to a low gain for controls. A pre-test gender gap closed entirely by post-test, confirming equitable outcomes. The study provides the first controlled evidence from Kazakhstani secondary schools that STEM integration substantially outperforms traditional physics instruction.enSTEM integrationForce Concept Inventory (FCI)Al-Farabi Specialized LyceumThesis