Misconceptions

As a teacher and fellow human being I understand that people have misconceptions about phenomena in nature. Or preconceived notions about the results from a series of events.

I would surmise that misconceptions are the result of any number of reasons.  Some misconceptions are inherently found in various cultures.  Anthropologists have been writing about this for years.  Perhaps they come from a lack of fundamental knowledge about a subject.  Or, somehow knowledge is passed on from one person to another and it is assumed to be the truth.  Even though misconceptions can potentially lead to even more misconceptions or an embarrassing moment they also offer a teachable moment.  With the right skills, misconceptions can be used to promote inquiry.  Discrepant events might lead a student to come up with an explanation and thus exposing their misconceptions.  Then that is where the prepared teacher can promote inquiry and learning.

New media and emerging technologies can be used as tools to guide a student.  Whether it is a learning module using simulations or a network to communicate with professionals, there is potential beyond my current framework of understanding.  Looking at visual models of events or animations can be more effective than hearing about it in a lecture.  Traditionally the knowledge is transferred on a linear path from those with information to those without information.  Now, the model is different.  Students can essentially manage the learning experience and use multiple sources of information.  Information can be text based, virtual environments and simulations, new media, or networks to name a few.  I believe that as new generations begin their learning experiences they bring with them new expectations on how they want to learn or "be taught." 

Exposing misconceptions and replacing them with what may be considered "the truth" at the time is possible via a conversation or video.  However, how long will that information be stored in the memory before it is replaced by the old misconceptions? 

Current models of cognitive learning suggest that the more input from multiple sources the more likely you are to reinforce that memory.  In other words, just hearing something once doesn't necessarily mean the learner will remember or has learned.  If they can interact with the content, have multiple sources of stimulation, and reinforcement then the neural network has a greater potential to last longer and thus stay in long term memory.  The final result would be extinction of the misconception.  Currently, there are more opportunities to make this happen than there were in the past. 

You mission, if you choose to accept it......  Find meaningful ways to apply instructional technology to enhance learning.