Publication Title: Asia-Pacific Forum on Science Learning and Teaching
Author: Yılmaz Kara and Selami Yesilyurt
Volume (Issue): 8(2)
Page Number: 1-22
Publication Year: 2007
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of tutorial and edutainment software programs related to ‘‘genetic concepts’’ topic on student achievements, misconceptions and attitudes. An experimental research design including the genetic concepts achievement test (GAT), the genetic concept test (GCT) and biology attitude scale (BAS) was applied at the beginning and at the end of the research. After the treatment, general achievement in GAT increased in favor of experimental groups. It was also noticed that using edutainment software programs significantly changed students’ attitudes towards biology. However, only tutorial design software program had the positive effect to the awareness of students’ understandings to the concepts gene, DNA, nucleus, chromosome, allele, genetic information, and genetic code. The current study also revealed that there were still some misconceptions in the experimental groups even after the treatment.
Key words: Computer assisted instruction, Instructional software, Evaluation of educational technology, Secondary education
Misconceptions
- Gene 1. Genes are determines our characteristics. 2. Genes are founds vague, everywhere. 3. Genes are only found in specific organs or tissues (e.g. reproductive system). 4. Gens are made up of other biological material proteins/amino acids.{Age/Grade: 9-12}{Scientific Subjects: Biology, Genetics}
- DNA 1. Chromosomes are made up of DNA. 2. DNA is only found in specific parts of the body, most commonly the blood.{Age/Grade: 9-12}{Scientific Subjects: Biology, Genetics}
- Chromosomes 1. Chromosomes are made up of other chromosomes (e.g. X and Y chromosomes). 2. Same species have the same chromosome number. 3. Chromosomes are located in the nucleus.{Age/Grade: 9-12}{Scientific Subjects: Biology, Genetics}
- Nucleus 1. Genetic materials are not found in nucleus. 2. Nucleus does not take a role at the control of cell function. 3.Nucleus is found in all cells.{Age/Grade: 9-12}{Scientific Subjects: Biology, Genetics}
- Allele gene 1. Allele gene is a concept which can be used as an alternative of gene and chromosome.{Age/Grade: 9-12}{Scientific Subjects: Biology, Genetics}
- Genetic information 1. Genetic information is the same in all livings. 2. All cells from one individual do not contain the same genetic information.{Age/Grade: 9-12}{Scientific Subjects: Biology, Genetics}