Tangible Prototype for Electric Circuit: Newer Design for Older Problems

• In Event: Poster Session 9
  In Poster Session: Research in Science Learning and Teaching Poster Session 2

Abstract

Water flow model is used as an analogy for electricity in simple circuits. It is considered as the most popular analogy utilized by science teachers. However, research showed that students have limited knowledge on the dynamics of water flow rendering the analogy insufficient to provide clear distinction on energy consumption and current conservation when applied to DC circuits. In this study, a new water circuit prototype will be introduced. It aims to address the pedagogical issues brought about by the older model. This study will further discuss how the new prototype was able to re-shift the majority of 29 Grade 4 pupils’ focus from a ‘current-centered’ to ‘voltage-centered’ conceptual observations.

Authors

• Gerald Gallego Tembrevilla, The University of British Columbia

• Yoshihiko Inada, Okayama University