Understanding Multiple Dimensions of How Students Manage Uncertainty for Productive Struggles

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Epistemic Agency, Inquiry, and Justice in Science Education (Table 29)

Abstract

This study conceptualizes uncertainty management for productive struggles in science learning, develops and validates a new uncertainty management scale, and examines its relationship with curiosity. Survey data collected from U.S. middle school students in 2022-2023 academic year were used for analyses to investigate validity evidence of the scale. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a five-factor model of uncertainty management: Orientation toward uncertainty, positive and negative reactions, self-efficacy, and strategies for uncertainty management. Notably, positive and negative reactions to uncertainty are distinct constructs, warranting separate attention rather than a unidimensional approach. Structural equation modeling results highlight the importance of fostering social interactions to help students cope with negative emotions arising from uncertainties, which can lead to productive struggles.

Authors

• Jongchan Park, Arizona State University

• Emily Starrett, Arizona State University

• Carlos Meza-Torres, Arizona State University

• Ying-Chih Chen, Arizona State University

• Michelle Jordan, Arizona State University