Showing papers by "Vista University published in 2005"

Students’ perceptions of the role of models in the process of science and in the process of learning

Abstract: The purpose of this paper was to investigate students’ views on models and modelling in science as well as the role that models play in learning, using a theoretical framework of models in learning. Students’ views on models in science were investigated using a pencil‐and‐paper questionnaire given to 275 students from Grade 8 (13 years old) to first‐year university students, which enabled both forced choice and an open response. The results provided evidence, improving with increased years of schooling, that many students have a good understanding of the role of models in the process of science, appreciating the representational nature of models, the multiplicity of models and the changing nature of models. However, in contrast to previous studies, many students were also aware of the role of models in their learning of science. While some students had a fascination for true facts and single and correct models, others exhibited more sophisticated epistemologies of science. Mostly students’ comments reveal...