HR: 0830h
AN: ED31B-1168    [PDF]
TI: Understanding Models: An Explicit Path
AU: * Wade, P D
EM: wadep@wou.edu
AB: Models consist of representations of the "real" world \(Giere, 1988\). Visual models, including 3-D representations, diagrams, images and photos are a dominant feature of science courses. However, the use and limitations of models is seldom explicitly taught. Results from a survey assessing students' 1. knowledge of what models are, 2. ability to understand what a model illustrates as well as describe its specific parts, and 3. ability to discuss the use and limitations \(or distortions\) of a model, suggest students' do not have a fundamental understanding of models. In an undergraduate Earth systems course and a science methods education course an explicit instructional approach is used which enhances students' abilities to understand and use models. The approach requires students to; 1. describe each component of a given model, 2. discuss what the model illustrates, 3. describe how the model is used and 4. discuss the limitations of the model. This approach aids the instructor in targeting specific areas of weakness in students' abilities to use models. Using this approach, students' abilities to understand and use models has increased. Additionally preservice teachers have an increased awareness that models can be misinterpreted by students which can lead to misconceptions.
DE: 6299 General or miscellaneous
DE: 6605 Education
SC: Education and Human Resources [ED]
MN: 2003 Fall Meeting