Modeller i kjemiundervisning - et eksempel på hvordan de kan bidra til læring og feillæring

We discuss the use of analogical models in science education using examples from online learning resources.  We have conducted a teaching program for a group of 7th grade pupils and a group of science teacher students, and the main theme of this program is the use of models in chemistry. Specifically, we study the effect of an analogical model that is designed to promote understanding of the properties of molecules, related to a paper chromatography experiment. Our research indicates that analogical models can be a useful tool to convey understanding of abstract concepts and non-visible phenomena, but they hold serious pitfalls that can lead to misunderstandings amongst students if not used in a proper manner. These findings are in line with other studies. Our data indicate that respondents` knowledge about molecular properties may have increased after participating in this teaching program. However, both groups of respondents consistently used wrong properties to explain the paper chromatography experiment. Conversation transcripts and respondents` models indicate that these misconceptions are enhanced by the analogical model they were given to work with during the teaching program. Based on our findings, we give some advice for how to best present analogies in the classroom.