Misconceptions and children's investigations in Science

This poster shows two misconceptions which children may have about light. Rather than simply tell children why their idea is a misconception, it is much better for children to go through the scientific process of investigating their ideas themselves. They are then developing scientific skills as well as developing a more accurate understanding of the world.

Addressing children's misconceptions is an opportunity to develop investigating and observation skills, not just an opportunity to correct their understanding!

I feel it's important for young children to freely make their own investigations, and not be overly constrained by rigid procedure of keeping things the same to ensure a fair test and accurately recording results. Whilst these aspects are very important to an accurate investigation, and should be introduced early, they can also be barriers to children freely testing out many possibilities. I hope children have the freedom and opportunity to test out lots of ideas in their own way. Watertight application of fair test procedures can come later!