Abstract
This paper analyzes the concept of epistemological obstacle since its origin in the work of Gaston Bachelard to the different forms it has acquired in the didactics of natural sciences. From this analysis, some theoretical problems are identified, especially the overly broad use of the expression 'epistemological obstacle' and a definition is proposed that seeks to overcome these problems. Based on this definition, the development of a 'metacognitive vigilance' on epistemological obstacles is suggested as the main didactic objective. The relationship is analyzed between the concept of epistemological obstacle and the notions of conception, model and cognitive bias, to conclude that none of these can replace the first. In the conclusions, the reasons are presented why the concept of epistemological obstacle is of great value both for research in the didactics of natural sciences and for teaching practice.
Keywords
Science education; Epistemology; Philosophy of science