"Evaluation of Inquiry and Arts Methods to Reverse the Science Misconceptions of Fourth Graders"

AERA 2018 Annual Meeting: “The Dreams, Possibilities, and Necessity of Public Education”
April 13-17, 2018
New York

Title: "Evaluation of Inquiry and Arts Methods to Reverse the Science Misconceptions of Fourth Graders"
Authors: Brad Hughes, Christa Renee Mulker Greenfader (SoE Alumna), Sage Brianna O’Toole, Joseph Wong, Drew Bailey

Abstract

​Science misconceptions are a threat to science learning in elementary grades. The current study examines inquiry- and visual and performing arts (VAPA)-based methods as a means to debunk science misconceptions of 1,620 fourth graders. Multiple regressions are used to compare the impacts of the two methods. Focus group data is examined to gain insight into teachers’ perspectives of utilizing inquiry- and VAPA-based lessons. Findings suggest inquiry-based lessons might aid in debunking the science misconceptions of fourth graders, especially when given to students first, followed by VAPA-based lessons.