Since this issue of The Science Teacher has a polar theme, the author thought this would be a particularly appropriate time to examine research about students’ preconceived ideas about heat—or the lack thereof. Heat and temperature are difficult, abstract concepts. Because the concepts are difficult to grasp yet important for understanding the general nature of matter and other concepts (e.g., the science behind phase changes, enthalpy), extensive research literature exists that discusses misconceptions.
Details
Type Journal ArticlePub Date 1/1/2009Stock # tst09_076_01_10Volume 076Issue 01