Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Method of Active Learning Based on Reigeluth and Stein's Elaboration Theory

摘要

Several studies have shown that methods of active learning are more effective for learning the concepts of physics than traditional methods. We propose an active learning method based on the Elaboration Theory of Instruction applied to topics of Geometrical Optics. The proposal was tested on a sample of 202 students distributed in eight natural groups, corresponding to classes of pre-engineer year secondary education ("2nd Year of Bachillerato" in Spain). Four of these groups followed the proposed Elaboration Theory-based instruction sequence, and the other four followed the control sequence of instruction corresponding to their teacher's traditional methods. Pre- and post-tests were applied designed to detect preconceptions in Geometrical Optics. Their results confirmed that, at least in teaching material of Geometrical Optics, sequencing the content and activities according to the prescriptions of Elaboration Theory improves the quality of the students' learning relative to traditional methods because, amongst other capacities, it is able to correct their preconceptions on the subject.