Using software based on text mining and multi-representational graphic presentation as support for learning of scientific concepts from texts in Elementary School

Abstract:

This work presents two independent studies that aim to investigate how a tool based on text mining and multi-representational graphical presentation (SOBEK) can contribute to the process of constructing scientific concepts from text by elementary school students. The studies were conducted in a quasi-experimental design with application of pre-test and post-tests with non-equivalent control groups. Refutational texts from published researches were used, as well as the corresponding performance tests about each text. The concepts covered are energy and the particulate nature of matter. Performed in a municipal school in Southern Brazil, the studies included two classes of 8th grade students. Statistical analysis of scores performed by students in tests show significant improvements in student's performance that used the SOBEK tool as support for the study of text. More detailed studies are needed to identify the occurrence and extent of possible changes in students´ conceptual structure supported by the proposed approach.

Keywords:
Technology in education; SOBEK; Science teaching; Scientific concept; Elementary school