Modes of engagement in hands-on science learning: A microanalysis of elementary students' relationship to the object of study

Constructivism generally focuses on children's development of ideas, the nature of their conceptions, and their methods of reasoning. When closely examined the current theory of constructivism does not explicitly say anything regarding the modes of engagement through which children experience the natural world. Because of the emphasis on rational thought there tends to be an underemphasis on the patterns of participation through which children experience the natural world. Yet, it would make sense that the ways in which children encounter the natural world would have a great impact on the development of their ideas. In the area of science education, where the interaction with natural world phenomena is central to the study of the discipline, this is especially important. These modes of engagement have a powerful influence on the relationship children have with their objects of study.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Education

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2011

Author dc:creator

• Rath, Alex

Contributors dc:contributor

• Brown, David E.

• Education, Elementary
• Education, Sciences

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1995 Rath, Alex

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

AAI9543701
(UMI)AAI9543701

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/22554