The Nature of Practical Work and Its Utilization for the Development of Thinking Skills

• In Event: 47.029 - Epistemic Cognition and Reasoning in Science Learning

Abstract

There is a long history of debate by science educators on the purpose and type of learning promoted through practical work in science. In certain educational contexts, the use of practical work to stimulate cognition is a major objective; however there remains little supporting evidence. This study involves secondary schools in which practical work science teachers are expected to develop particular thinking skills in students. A holistic and in-depth examination of practical work and its effectiveness as an instructional tool for thinking skill development was undertaken. This was guided by a conceptual/theoretical framework in which second generation Activity Theory was used as a core component. A case study approach was utilized and qualitative data collection methods were employed.

Author

• Kristy Phillip, Ministry of Education, Trinidad and Tobago