Open AccessMiddle School Students with Exceptional Learning Needs Investigate the Use of Visuals for Learning Science
Author(s) -
Robin McCartney,
Donna Dugger Wadsworth
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
teaching and learning
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1703-2598
DOI - 10.26522/tl.v7i1.395
Subject(s) - memorization , mathematics education , perception , schema (genetic algorithms) , construct (python library) , subject matter , computer science , psychology , pedagogy , curriculum , information retrieval , neuroscience , programming language
A visual instructional tool that is theory-driven and supported by evidence-based research is used to support student learning and information-processing. The graphic organizer has enhanced learning in Science Education as well as Special Education, emphasizing the construction of knowledge with meaningful sequential relationships rather than memorizing isolated fragments of information. Students construct a visual schema that represents a system of interrelated concepts and icons created by the learner. This article provides a description of a qualitative application of how students with disabilities are able to represent their ideas by assimilating subject matter and their personal perceptions of content by drawing pictures connected to concepts within the visual graphic. Positive results were documented in this study.