ERIC Number: EJ1347865
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021-Jan
Pages: 30
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
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EISSN: EISSN-2364-1177
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A Framework for Defining Scientific Concepts in Science Education
Wong, Chee Leong; Chu, Hye-Eun; Yap, Kueh Chin
Asia-Pacific Science Education, v6 n2 p615-644 Jan 2021
Studies have shown that inadequate definitions of scientific concepts could complicate the learning of science and could prevent students from understanding the definitions of scientific concepts. The article provides a framework for defining scientific concepts in primary, secondary, and university education by proposing teachers draw attention to five common "features" of a definition: object/system, nature/characteristics, cause/effect, mathematical expression/equation, and condition/reference frame that can help students to consider four dimensions, including, 'comprehensiveness,' 'precision,' 'consistency,' and 'circularity' when learning science concepts. This framework can be used by science teachers to guide students to analyze and redefine scientific concepts in the classroom and may be especially beneficial for students in Asian countries where teachers and students often rely on rote memorization as a strategy for learning scientific concepts. We conclude by describing the need for future studies in educational contexts in Asian countries where pedagogical strategies have traditionally emphasized memorization of science concepts.
Descriptors: Definitions, Scientific Concepts, Science Education, Elementary School Science, Secondary School Science, College Science, Science Instruction, Models, Standards
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Education; Secondary Education; Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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