Representations of mechanical waves propagation formed by university students

Abstract

Research results on university students conceptions about the mechanism of wave propagation and the role of propagation medium, are presented. Based on a theoretical framework that articulates the schemes of theory of conceptual fields Vergnaud’s theory with the mental models of Johnson-Laird’s theory, students reasonings used when approaching a concrete problematic situation are analyzed. The analysis of results allows for the identification of some schemes and the basic characteristics of the mental models that students use to solve the task. The conclusions show the potential of this theoretical framework in understanding the process of representations construction, and for the development of future instructional proposals, that can be used to promote meaningful learning.