7–11 Jul 2025
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Africa/Johannesburg timezone
Registration open until 20 May 2025

Assessing First Year Students’ Epistemological Beliefs about Learning Physical Science

Not scheduled
1h
Solomon Mahlangu House (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg)

Solomon Mahlangu House

University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

Oral Presentation Track E - Physics for Development, Education and Outreach Physics for Development, Education and Outreach

Speaker

Dr Paul Molefe (University of Johannesburg)

Description

Epistemological beliefs individuals hold about the nature of knowledge and learning play a crucial role in understanding and engaging in the physical sciences. These beliefs influence how students, educators, and researchers perceive scientific concepts, theories, and methodologies. In the context of physical sciences, epistemological beliefs encompass views on the certainty and structure of scientific knowledge, the role of empirical evidence, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the evolution of theories over time. While some individuals may see scientific knowledge as absolute and unchanging, others recognize its dynamic and tentative nature, shaped by ongoing experimentation and revision. Research suggests that sophisticated epistemological beliefs, which acknowledge the complexity and evolving nature of scientific understanding, enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and engagement in scientific discourse. The study shows a slight improvement in the sophistication of epistemological beliefs after intervention using inquiry-based approaches.

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Primary author

Dr Paul Molefe (University of Johannesburg)

Co-authors

Prof. Buyi Sondezi (University of Johannesburg) Mphiriseni Khwanda (University of johannesburg)

Presentation materials

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