K validizácii bipolárnej výrokovej škály pri identifikácii miskoncepcií v oblasti poznatkov o stavbe atómu

Abstract

Identifying misconceptions is a relatively challenging task, as it is about identifying concepts that are firmly rooted in an individual’s thought-structure. The use of research tools such as three-tier test, didactic test, and interview is challenging not only in terms of methodology, but it is also lengthy and demanding in terms of unambiguous evaluation and interpretation. The aim of the paper is to present the construction of a simple tool – bipolar assertion scale. Its aim is to determine the adequate and appropriate ideas of lower secondary school pupils about the atom, not excluding the importance the science process skills. The presented tool is composed of a set of statements that present acceptable or unacceptable statements about the atom, its structure and properties. We work with construct validity. Based on our preliminary results, we discuss the observed correlations of the bipolar scale with the test score of formal operations (Piaget’s cognitive level) and the summative evaluation of students’ performance at school.