Table 2 Domain knowledge challenges and scaffolds
From: Identifying middle school students’ challenges in computational thinking-based science learning
Challenge | Description | Kinematics unit examples | Ecology unit examples | Scaffolds provided |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Domain knowledge-related challenges | Difficulties caused by missing or incorrect domain knowledge | Difficulty understanding acceleration and its relation to speed, how speed depends on the rollercoaster segment slope | Lack of prior knowledge about the waste cycle in the fish tank, the chemicals, and the role of bacteria | Explain formal procedures for calculations; provides definitions, explanations, and examples of different scientific terms and concepts; help connect domain-related theoretical concepts to learning tasks in the CTSiM environment; and rectify incorrect knowledge using contrasting cases for creating cognitive conflict |