Using representations for teaching and learning in science

Article

Carolan, Jim, Prain, Vaughan and Waldrip, Bruce. 2008. "Using representations for teaching and learning in science ." Teaching Science: The Journal of the Australian Science Teachers Association. 54 (1), pp. 18-23.
Article Title

Using representations for teaching and learning in science

ERA Journal ID22303
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsCarolan, Jim (Author), Prain, Vaughan (Author) and Waldrip, Bruce (Author)
Journal TitleTeaching Science: The Journal of the Australian Science Teachers Association
Journal Citation54 (1), pp. 18-23
Number of Pages6
Year2008
PublisherAustralian Science Teachers Association
Place of PublicationDeakin, ACT, Australia
ISSN1442-5556
1449-6313
1839-2946
Web Address (URL)http://search.informit.com.au/fullText;dn=168729;res=AEIPT
Abstract

There is growing research interest in both the challenges and opportunities learners face in trying to represent scientific understanding, processes and reasoning. The challenges, including integrating verbal, visual and mathematical modes in science discourse, and making strong conceptual links between classroom experiences and diverse 3D and 2D representations, are now well understood by researchers. However, a matching enhanced pedagogy of representation-rich learning opportunities, including their theoretical justification, is much less clearly established. Our paper reports on a three-year project to identify practical and theoretical issues entailed in maximizing representational opportunities for learners to develop conceptual understandings in science. We focus here on two case studies of the topics of force and the particle theory of matter in Years 7 and 8. Analysed qualitative and quantitative data indicated that tasks that required students to re-represent emerging understandings of concepts and processes across different modes promoted strong learning gains.

Keywordsrepresentation, primary science, science teaching
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020390113. Science, technology and engineering curriculum and pedagogy
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Byline AffiliationsLa Trobe University
Faculty of Education
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