Exploring how Disposition toward Scientific Uncertainty Navigation and Epistemic Curiosity Interact to Influence Learning Engagement

• In Event: AER Roundtable Session Friday 1:45 pm - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Learning Through Uncertainty: Curiosity, Emotion, and Creativity in Science Education

Abstract

This study examines how Disposition toward Scientific Uncertainty Navigation (DSUN) and Epistemic Curiosity (EC), including interest-type and deprivation-type EC shape learning engagement. Survey data from 789 middle and high school students engaged in a solar energy unit taught using the Students’ Uncertainty as a Pedagogical Resource approach were analyzed using multiple regression. Both DSUN and EC positively predicted learning engagement, with significant interaction effects. Interest-type EC promoted engagement directly, while deprivation-type EC only did so when paired with strong DSUN. A three-way interaction showed that students high in both EC types were most engaged when they also had strong DSUN. These findings highlight the importance of fostering both EC and uncertainty tolerance in inquiry-based science learning.

Authors

• Bukola Omowumi Akinbadewa, Arizona State University

• Ying-Chih Chen, Arizona State University

• Michelle Jordan, Arizona State University

• Jongchan Park, Arizona State University

• Carlos Meza-Torres, Arizona State University

• Chin-Chung Tsai, National Taiwan Normal University