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Asia-Pacific Forum on Science Learning and Teaching, Volume 8, Issue 2, Article 4 (Dec., 2007) Representations in problem solving in science: Directions for practice |
According to the mental model theory, problem solving depends on the construction and manipulation of mental models (internal representations) in the mind. The construction of a mental model results from links made between the elements of the problem description and the underlying knowledge base. This knowledge base is composed of several types of knowledge: declarative, procedural, strategic, situational, and schematic knowledge. Working memory plays an important role in the construction and manipulation of mental models. Studies involving limited working memory capacity and information load support the positive relationship between working memory and problem solving. Moreover, the importance of metacognitive processes during problem solving have been advocated by many researchers. Based on the discussion, directions for the improvement of science problem solving skills can be suggested. These will include the key role of a large knowledge base, to decrease the information load in problem solving, and to offer measures in the field of metacognition.
For external representations it has been shown that using multiple representations when solving problems may be beneficial because representational formats can affect student performance and the use of representational learning strategies can lead to substantial improvements in problem solving.
