Project Details
Description
This project is grounded in a theoretical framework that specifies
key epistemological features of scientific experimentation. On the basis
of this framework, the project will develop a computer-based environment in which
seventh graders can conduct simulated experiments in the domain of cell
biology. The simulated experiments will be designed to capture many of
the crucial epistemological features of authentic scientific
experimentation. The computer-based experimentation environment will then
be used in a series of studies to investigate how students learn complex
forms of scientific reasoning. A main focus of the studies will be to
investigate the sociocognitive processes by which computer simulations
promote complex learning during classroom instruction. The planned studies
include two large classroom experiments that will provide a rich, detailed
picture of how seventh graders' reasoning and knowledge of cells change,
moment to moment, during classroom instruction. The classroom instruction,
using an instructional method called Collaborative Reasoning about
Evidence, will interleave whole-class discussions with small-group work in
which students conduct and discuss simulated experiments. The studies will
aim to provide a fine-grained analysis of how whole-class discussions and
group interactions mediate students' learning. In sum, this program of
research is intended (a) to provide new insights into how to teach students
to reason about epistemologically authentic experimentation and (b) to
produce tested instructional software, materials, and methods that teachers
can readily access and use in their classrooms.
Status | Finished |
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Effective start/end date | 7/1/99 → 6/30/07 |
Funding
- National Science Foundation: $513,685.00