This study investigated the use of negative instances in deductive concept learning and studied the effect of the type of negative instance used. No significant differences in concept learning were found. (Author)

The knowledge structure in a course determines what strategies students need in order to learn the subject matter and what methods a teacher may use to teach it. The conceptual structures in university courses were analyzed to provide a baseline for understanding the characteristics and organization of course content. (Author/MLW)

Tested competing hypotheses about the acquisition of terms that refer to relationships in both time and space. Hypotheses were as follows: (1) language of time is acquired as a spatial metaphor; and (2) differential experience with the dual senses of each term results in different acquisition patterns depending upon which sense dominates actual…

Instructional variables were manipulated to determine whether they influence the level of perceptual analysis. The relationships of perceptual analysis to concept learning and evaluations of the instructors were also examined in the study. (Author/GK)

This study utilized the instructional methods of discovery teaching and expository presentation to investigate the concept development of students in a remedial college chemistry class. Results indicate that the two sets of instructional materials did not lead to the same understanding of the concept. (BT)

Defines two interrelated educational concepts, "personal meaning" and "personal learning". The concepts are defined in terms of what a students says when asked to discuss his participation in a class. These concepts may provide educators and students with more precise ways of describing and dealing with certain dimensions of a…

Describes an investigation of polygons and their properties in which students apply very basic understandings of geometric properties. (KHR)

Examines the idea that the development of moral ability shares similarities with Lev Vygotsky's theory of concept formation. Argues that understanding moral ability as a present-centered aptitude for creating meaning is significant for educators. Concludes it is useful for understanding the learning process to think and act in the present. (CAJ)

Examines the effects of using a conflict map on 8th grade students' conceptual change and ideational networks about simple series electric circuits. Analyzes student interview data through a flow map method. Shows that the use of conflict maps could help students construct greater, richer, and more integrated ideational networks about electric…

Develops an instrument for measuring secondary students' cognitive conflict levels as they learn science. Indicates that cognitive conflict consists of four constructs: (1) recognition of an anomalous situation; (2) interest; (3) anxiety; and (4) cognitive reappraisal of the conflict situation. Discusses implications for instruction and…

Explores self-reflection skills and views in the context of an introductory physics course for first-year engineering honors students. Measures students' conceptual learning gains using standard survey instruments. Finds that students with high conceptual gains tend to show reflection on learning that is more articulate and epistemologically…

Examines the process through which students learn to make functional use of computer algebra systems (CAS) and the interaction between that process and the wider mathematical development of students. Highlights important challenges that arise in instrumenting classroom mathematical activity and instrumentalizing CAS correspondingly. Reveals…

Presents young children's concepts related to probability grouped by definite, possible, and definitely not. Discusses the teaching methods of the probability concepts. (YP)

Ethnomathematics is a program that looks into the generation, transmission, institutionalization, and diffusion of knowledge with emphasis on the sociocultural environment. By drawing on the cultural experiences and practices of individuals and of communities, ethnomathematics allows for an easier flow of scientific ideas with children, reducing…