The creation and use of models in science is of great importance for knowledge production and communication. For example, toy models are often used as idealized explanatory models in physics education. Models can be a powerful tool for exploring phenomena in ways that facilitate learning. However, careful consideration of instruction and…

Schwarz and colleagues have proposed and refined a learning progression for modeling that provides a valuable template for envisioning increasingly sophisticated levels of modeling practice at an aggregate level (Fortus, Shwartz, & Rosenfeld, 2016; Schwarz et al., 2009; Schwarz, Reiser, Archer, Kenyon, & Fortus, 2012). Thinking about…

Research suggests that translanguaging can be transformative for teaching and learning by making students' diverse linguistic resources a meaningful part of classroom discourse. Building on this study, researchers have explored how translanguaging practices can support learning in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), primarily…

Examines how problem solving in the domain of Mendelian genetics proceeds in situations where solvers' mental models are insufficient to solve problems at hand (model-revising problem solving). The study addressed the heuristics characteristic of successful model-revising problem solving and other aspects of student model use. (LZ)

Presents part of a project that introduces a sufficient, simple, and relevant teaching approach to quantum mechanics into in-/pre-service teacher education and provides teachers with the indispensable scientific knowledge and epistemological base needed for reform in science education. (Contains 54 references.) (Author/YDS)

Uses examples related to a head of cabbage to discuss: (1) sensory development in children; (2) the integration of sensory and cognitive involvement; and (3) a child's mode of exploring and discovering. Also discusses why science curricula need to be organized around a paradigm that is holistic. (JN)

Participants (N=40) in an inservice program to promote student reasoning and learning cycle approach indicated that making changes and maintaining ongoing work was dependent on collaboration between colleagues in the project. Investigators concluded that the "coaching" phase (Joyce and Showers inservice training model) is a crucial step…

Discusses (1) the need for teachers to understand student conceptions; (2) alternative conceptions that students formulate; (3) changing conceptions; (4) representing conceptual knowledge for studying conceptual change; (5) strategies for inducing change; and (6) a taxonomy of conceptual change. (Contains 61 references.) (MDH)