Date of Award
1991
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Bachelor of Education Honours
Faculty
Faculty of Education
First Supervisor
Dr J. C. Happs
Second Supervisor
Dr Mark Hackling
Abstract
This research examines misconceptions about light held by Year 7 primary school students. The subjects (n = 37) were selected from six schools in the northeastern area of Perth, Western Australia. An Interview About Instances approach was used in this research using instance cards specifically designed for this study. Misconceptions were ascertained and those held by 25% or more of the students were considered significant. Misconceptions were found in the understanding of the physical and the physiological process of sight, the relationship of light to colour, night vision in animals and the distance light travels under different circumstances. The misconceptions held by Year 7 students in this study were similar to those found in United States primary school students (Eaton, Anderson & Smith, 1984) and Western Australian secondary school students (Fetherstonhaugh, 1987). Implications for teaching, teacher instruction and curriculum review are discussed and suggestions made future research.
Recommended Citation
Coulstock, C. A. (1991). What do primary students know about light?: An investigation into misconceptions held by year 7 students in Western Australia. Edith Cowan University. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses_hons/401