An Analysis of High School Students’ Learning Ability of Modelling about the Topic of Voltaic Cell

Abstract

Modeling is a model-based learning process, which is repeated through formation, use, modification and elaboration. It is one of the significant factors influencing classroom teaching effect and students’ learning results. The paper-pencil test and interview were used to study the modeling ability of 91 senior high school students in xi ‘an middle School of Shaanxi province, China. The research results of students’ modeling ability showed that: (1) students’ modeling ability is generally low. The ability level of each modeling process is relatively low. Only the model construction ability can reach level 3, and the model selection ability, model validity ability and model application ability can only reach level 2. The model deployment ability can only reach level 1. (2) Students paper-pencil test scores and average modeling ability on voltaic cell theme were significantly correlated with each modeling ability (**p<0.01). The students with high modeling ability usually had good academic performance. Judging from the relationship among the five modeling abilities, selection ability was basis of construction ability, validity ability, application ability. However, there is no correlation between the selection and deployment ability, which suggesting that if students cannot understand the limitation and application range of the voltaic cell, they cannot effectively optimize and improve its existing model. (3) The modeling process of students have the characteristics of interpreting by a single factor. It is difficult for students to fully explain the reasons from the connection and extension relationship between factors and the overall structure.