Learning environment,learning styles and conceptual understanding |
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| Authors: | Dr Lourdes M Ferrer |
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| Institution: | (1) RECSAM Teaching-Learning Project, 11700 Glugor, Penang, Malaysia |
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| Abstract: | In recent years there have been many studies on learners developing conceptions of natural phenomena. However, so far there
have been few attempts to investigate how the characteristics of the learners and their environment influence such conceptions.
This study began with an attempt to use an instrument developed by McCarthy (1981) to describe learners in Malaysian primary
schools. This proved inappropriate as Asian primary classrooms do not provide the same kind of environment as US classrooms.
It was decided to develop a learning style checklist to suit the local context and which could be used to describe differences
between learners which teachers could appreciate and use. The checklist included four dimensions — perceptual, process, self-confidence
and motivation. The validated instrument was used to determine the learning style preferences of primary four pupils in Penang,
Malaysia.
Later, an analysis was made regarding the influence of learning environment and learning styles on conceptual understanding
in the topics of food, respiration and excretion. This study was replicated in the Philippines with the purpose of investigating
the relationship between learning styles and achievement in science, where the topics of food, respiration and excretion have
been taken up. A number of significant relationships were observed in these two studies.
Specializations: science education, primary science, educational research and measurement, educational management. |
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