Open AccessConceptual Understanding: A Concept Analysis
Author(s) -
Susan C. Mills
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
the qualitative report
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.335
H-Index - 35
ISSN - 2160-3715
DOI - 10.46743/2160-3715/2016.2308
Subject(s) - salient , psychology , metacognition , conceptual framework , concept learning , memorization , process (computing) , conceptual change , curriculum , mathematics education , pedagogy , cognition , epistemology , computer science , artificial intelligence , philosophy , neuroscience , operating system
The term conceptual understanding was analyzed to determine how educators can help students attain understanding in a concept based curriculum. The investigator sought to establish what salient dimensions and conditions supported conceptual understanding. A dimensional analysis of the term conceptual understanding was employed through a review of the literature in mathematics, science, psychology, and nursing education. The salient dimensions of conceptual understanding were identified as: factual and procedural knowledge, connections, transfer, and metacognition. The supporting properties included: meaningful learning activities, memorization, and misconceptions. The results substantiate conceptual understanding as a process. When this process is utilized by nurse educators, students may better connect and organize knowledge aiding in the knowledge transfer that occurs between theory and practice.