Scientific Model Evaluation During a Gallery Walk

• In Event: Science Education in Computer-Supported Collaborative Settings

Abstract

Students in science education struggle with creating and iteratively revising models based on evidence. We report on an implementation of a “gallery walk” activity where 5th grade students used the Model and Evidence Mapping Environment (MEME) software tool to develop and then critique each other’s models of an algal bloom. MEME was designed to support students in creating visual models organized around the components and mechanisms of the target phenomena, linking evidence to those models, and then providing and responding to comments on the specific features of the model. Findings illustrate how this was a productive environment for students to make their ideas about modeling criteria visible, and how their ideas cut across normative dimensions of modeling expertise.

Authors

• Joshua Adam Danish, Indiana University

• Morgan Vickery, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Ravit Golan Duncan, Rutgers University

• Zachary David Ryan, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Christina Stiso, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Melissa Moreland, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Danielle Murphy, Rutgers University

• Cindy E. Hmelo-Silver, Indiana University

• Clark A. Chinn, Rutgers University