Four possible outcomes have been proposed for the situation where children are taught concepts that are in direct conflict with their prior beliefs (Gilbert, Osborne and Fensham, 1982). These are: no conceptual change occurs (undisturbed outcomes); two theories are developed that are mutually exclusive and are used according to circumstances (the mini- theory is reserved for the realities of living and the formally taught concept used in the unreal atmosphere of school); the naive concept may actually be reinforced as a result of the teaching process (reinforced outcome); and finally the desired result, the naive concept (mini-theory) is rejected or modified as a result of teaching process.
Type: Research and Analysis Report
Sub Type: Grant
Author(s): Cross (La Trobe Uni)
Topics: Child, Pedestrian, Speed
Publication Date: 01/01/89