Analysis of analogies generated by students of grades 7 through 11 in general science cources

النوع : Mémoire

This research investigated the effect of the nature of the source of the analog on students’ generated analogies both qualitatively and quantitatively. Moreover, it examined students’ perceptions regarding the usefulness of analogies, their preference regarding the source of the analog as well as their attitude towards generating analogies. Furthermore, this study attempted to check whether students who generated effective analogies could also provide good accounts on scientific phenomena, and hence show abilities to relate science to daily life. Distinction regarding the nature of the source of the analog was checked. Students from grade 7 to grade 11 of two different private schools in Beirut studying different science courses (general science, physics, chemistry, and biology) constituted the sample under investigation in this research (n=131). Students passed through three phases. In the first phase, students were requested to generate analogies on their own, using their own analogs. In the second phase, students were asked to generate analogies using the supplied analogs that were relevant enough for students. Next, some students were called in for interviews so as to check their abilities of relating science to daily-life events. Finally, students filled questionnaires regarding their perceptions about the usefulness of analogies, the preference of the nature of the source of the analog as well as their attitudes regarding self-generation of analogies. Research results revealed the fact that students often generate a greater number of analogies when they are given the freedom to self-select the analog and that these analogies tend to relate science concepts to daily-life events. Moreover, it showed that students who can generate effective analogies can also relate science concepts to daily-life events irrespective of the nature of the employed analog. Finally, the analysis of the perception questionnaires confirmed the positive attitudes of these students towards analogies, their use as well as their generation. Moreover, it showed that students prefer to use their own analog in generating their analogies.