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Re: Thinking Level of students

I assume we talking about
A) the basic new moon / 1st quarter / full moon geometry,
Even under this assumption, is the message that:
1) They weren't born knowing it, and can't picture it until it has been
covered in class?<<

According to the research I have done and conducted, they have ideas before coming to class, just not the right ones. They don't know the geometry that causes which Moon phase and most believe that moon phases are caused by shadows or blocking.

2) The picture doesn't "stick" even after it has been covered in class
in the usual way?<<

It doesn't stick after being taught. I surveyed students after taking an astronomy final in which the lunar phases were covered and they could not tell me what caused the lunar phases or give a rough idea about how far the earth and moon are from each other or a rough estimate of the relative sizes.

3) They are intrinsically unable to grasp it, no matter how it is taught?<<

Starting to wonder about this.....

4) They can't do it quickly using mental images alone, even though they
could manage if given more time and/or pencil&paper and/or props to work with?>>

If I remember correctly, research has hinted that giving students props tends to increase the ability to get the answer right.. which would point to a better conception.


I think college students can think...they are just not encouraged. I know in my classes they groan and moan when I try to make them think.


Geometric relationships in general, and the earth/moon/sun
geometry in particular, is commonly introduced in 2nd grade, and students
are expected to (mostly) "get it" by 3rd grade or 4th grade. (You can
confirm this by using google to find a bunch of 3rd-grade syllabuses. I
also checked with someone who teaches 3rd grade and has advanced training
in developmental psychology.)<<<

Well then something must be wrong somewhere because my college students don't get it. Most have no idea what so ever of the Earth Moon Sun Geometry

Tins




Meaning (4) would be no surprise -- and no problem.

Bottom line: I don't understand what the point is.....

Tina Fanetti
Physics Instructor
Western Iowa Technical Community College
4647 Stone Ave
Sioux City IA 51102
712-274-8733 ext 1429