The Types of Analogy Generation Processes and the Perceptions of Analogy Generation on Saturated Solution of Fifth Grade Scientifically-gifted and General Elementary Students

초등학교 5학년 과학영재와 일반 학생들의 포화 용액 개념에 대한 비유 만들기 과정의 유형과 비유 만들기에 대한 인식

In this study, we investigated and compared the types of analogy generation processes and the perceptions of analogy generation on saturated solution of fifth grade scientifically-gifted and general elementary students. After the instruction of self-generating analogies on 'saturated solution' concept for two classes, 12 scientifically-gifted and 8 general elementary students were interviewed to explore their analogy generation processes and the perceptions of the abilities required in the processes, the conditions of good analogies, and the advantages/disadvantages of analogy generation. The results revealed that their analogy generation processes were classified into three types. The scientifically-gifted students generated the analogies in more systematic and efficient ways and had better understanding of the important parts in the processes than the general elementary students. They also suggested more concrete and various ideas about the conditions of good analogies. Many scientifically-gifted and general elementary students thought that analogy generation would have positive influences on the developments of the cognitive aspects such as various higher-level thinking abilities and understanding of science concepts as well as the affective aspects such as science learning motivation and interest. Educational implications of these findings are discussed.