This study mined student interactions with visual representations as a means to automate assessment of learning in a complex, inquiry-based learning environment. Log trace data of 143 middle school students' interactions with an interactive map in Research Quest (an inquiry-based, online learning environment) were analyzed. Students used the…

Effectively mastering organic chemistry means having the ability to recognize structural patterns, identify properties or behaviors as a result of patterns, manipulate and transform representations, and predict future outcomes. Often students rely on rote memorization of seemingly disconnected information instead of developing a sound…

Discusses instructional strategies and activities designed to help students learn to recognize patterns and to create models to explain patterns. These include laboratory investigations and an exercise in which students are challenged to find the model used for the classroom seating arrangement. (JN)