Learning obstacles in children aged 10-12 years on the subject of human circulatory system: a theoretical proposal based on evidence

Abstract:

This paper focuses on the investigation of possible origins of learning errors detected in fifth and sixth grade primary school students (10-12 years), in relation to the human circulatory system. Based on the evidence that comes from the analysis of the children’s responses to a questionnaire, a theoretical proposal about cognitive processes involved in acquisition of new learning is presented. These cognitive processes are based on the framework of Information Processing Theory. A categorization of Epistemological Learning Obstacles (ELO) is also presented based on the analysis of cases of learning errors. Early detection of learning obstacles has an impact in avoiding the fixation of mistakes that could have appeared during initial stages of the learning process.

Keywords:
Science education; Primary school; Human circulatory system; Epistemological learning obstacles