![]() The scientist then would gather evidence to test that hypothesis. For example, in studying evolution in Hawaii, a scientist might hypothesize that a species on one island is descended from a species on another island. ![]() Scientists use the word “hypothesis” to describe an idea or model that has not yet been fully tested. ![]() The cell theory says that all living things are composed of cells. The theory of gravitation holds that all objects are attracted to each other in proportion to their mass. In science, “theory” refers to an explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is held with great confidence because it is supported by overwhelming evidence. But the word “theory” has a very different meaning in science than it does in everyday use. One potential source of confusion in discussing the theory of evolution is the meaning of the words “theory,”“hypothesis,” and “fact.” In popular usage, a “theory” is something that is not known for sure. Based on the evidence gathered, the hypothesis can be accepted or rejected and new, more refined hypotheses can be developed. Because hypotheses are based on phenomena that can be measured or observed, other scientists can test the hypotheses by gathering their own data. Then they gather additional information to test their hypotheses. They propose hypotheses that explain the evolution of those characteristics through naturally occurring mechanisms. This is how science builds a base of shared observations and ideas to which new knowledge can be added.įor example, scientists studying the characteristics of plants and animals in Hawaii look for natural explanations for those characteristics. ![]() We welcome original empirical and theoretical contributions from all scientific disciplines.Science requires that scientific explanations of phenomena be based on events or mechanisms that can be observed in the natural world. This Research Topic aims to bring together studies focusing on bridging between systems thinking and modeling competence when investigating complex phenomena, and by this to promote the understanding of the interplay between these approaches in science education and to advance the discussion within the educational research community. Modeling competence is the ability to engage in the process of developing and using models for reasoning in science, including the metacognitive awareness about models and modeling (‘metamodeling knowledge’). Systems thinking is the ability to recognize, describe, and model a complex phenomenon in its structure, behavior, and function as a system, including the metacognitive awareness about systems and system characteristics. Both systems thinking and modeling competence are important cognitive tools for investigating and reasoning about complex phenomena. In recent years, much attention has been placed on the teaching and learning of systems thinking and modeling competence in science education. Therefore, both systems thinking and modeling approaches are important for science education when investigating complex phenomena. Computational modeling tools, for example, provide students with the opportunity to explore big data, run simulations and investigate complex systems. Scientific models are tools that support students’ reasoning and understanding of complex systems, and students are expected to develop their modeling competence and to engage in the modeling process by constructing, testing, revising, and using models to explain and predict phenomena. When investigating complex phenomena, such as climate change or pandemic outbreaks, students are expected to engage in systems thinking by considering the boundaries of the investigated system, identifying the relevant components and their interactions, and exploring system attributes such as hierarchical organization, dynamicity, feedback loops, and emergence. Understanding the complexity of the natural world and making sense of phenomena is one of the main goals of science and science education.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |