Considers assumptions underlying current cognitive science research on concepts: (1) novel information is first processed via similarity judgments and later by explanatory components; (2) children initially have a similarity-based component for learning concepts--the explanatory component develops on its foundation. Argues that these assumptions…

Reports that many students do not believe Newton's law of action and reaction and suggests ways in which its plausibility might be enhanced. Reviews how this law has been made more plausible over time by Newton and those who succeeded him. Contains 25 references. (DDR)

Investigates students' ideas, conceptions, and misconceptions about acids and alkalis before and after a teaching sequence in a small-scale research project. Concludes that student understanding of acids and alkalis is lacking. (DDR)

Describes the evaluation of the characteristics and practicality of concept mapping as a technique for classroom assessment. Findings suggest that the time required to provide training in concept mapping, produce concepts, and score-concept maps is compatible with the adoption of concept mapping as a classroom-assessment technique. Contains 15…

Illustrates how knowledge of the ways children develop understandings of science subjects can be used to improve instruction. Probes students' problems in understanding excretion. Suggests that understanding can be promoted through strategies that build on students' existing knowledge, elicit conceptual development, and establishes meaningful…

Describes a teaching experiment conducted over a period of four consecutive days with 13 fourth grade students who had already completed a unit of fractions to determine whether problematic size was the ordering criteria. Concludes that children can indeed order fractions as they do natural numbers. (Contains 11 references.) (ASK)

Presents a learning system paradigm which uses a multiplicity of toys and simulated models to reinforce concepts in business management and production. Describes concrete learning tools and experiences for each component of a proposed instructional paradigm: measurement, efficacy, data development, imagery and integration, computerization,…

The design and technology approach can help learners acquire concepts and theory through practice. It can assist elementary teachers in meeting escalating demands for student engagement, integrated learning, inclusiveness, authenticity, and student empowerment. (SK)

The conception of knowledge was studied for 213 14- and 15-year-old students in Singapore and their 37 teachers and 96 students in the United States, with their 10 teachers. Cultural differences, including those in epistemological frameworks, are discussed, and their implications for education considered. (SLD)

Finds that stories are used considerably in early education to develop various aspects of both language and conceptual learning. Analyzes how one storytelling experience in a classroom for ages 5-6 provided a whole range of opportunities for developing relevant and meaningful learning, particularly for bilingual learners--the story itself becomes…

Presents a study designed to test the effectiveness of a constructivist-historical teaching strategy in changing students' misconceptions about the earth's shape and gravity at the upper elementary and middle school levels. Contains 27 references. (DDR)

Addresses the possible connection between misconceptions of energy in biological phenomena and adherence to scientifically oriented conceptions of biology. Makes recommendations for basing the biology curriculum on the second law of thermodynamics. Contains 31 references. (DDR)

Suggests the use of an analogy to resolve the puzzle of the lost energy when two capacitors are joined together. Uses the concept of water flowing between two tanks. (DDR)

Elaborates an approach to self-supervision that is consistent with constructive therapies, though the intention is to provide flexible guidelines that can accommodate a range of supervisory activities. In order to construct the identity of a self-sustaining therapist, a process of "constructive inquiry" is used to connect the case story,…

This article reports on a survey of 32 parents' recollections of when their children first demonstrated an awareness that they were visually impaired. It concludes that children with visual impairments achieve a basic level of understanding that their vision is different from that of others at ages varying from two to nine. (Author/DB)