Science learning and graphic symbols: an exploration of early years teachers’ views and use of graphic symbols when teaching science

Kambouri, M. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5591-9418, Salowm Pampoulou, E., Pieridou, M. and Allen, M. (2016) Science learning and graphic symbols: an exploration of early years teachers’ views and use of graphic symbols when teaching science. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 12 (9). pp. 2399-2417. ISSN 1305-8223 doi: 10.12973/eurasia.2016.1275a

Abstract/Summary

The study investigated early years teachers’ understanding and use of graphic symbols, defined as the visual representation(s) used to communicate one or more “linguistic” concepts, which can be used to facilitate science learning. The study was conducted in Cyprus where six early years teachers were observed and interviewed. The results indicate that the teachers had a good understanding of the role of symbols, but demonstrated a lack of understanding in regards to graphic symbols specifically. None of the teachers employed them in their observed science lesson, although some of them claimed that they did so. Findings suggest a gap in participants’ acquaintance with the terminology regarding different types of symbols and a lack of awareness about the use and availability of graphic symbols for the support of learning. There is a need to inform and train early years teachers about graphic symbols and their potential applications in supporting children’s learning.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/65622
Identification Number/DOI	10.12973/eurasia.2016.1275a
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Arts, Humanities and Social Science > Institute of Education > Improving Equity and Inclusion through Education
Uncontrolled Keywords	early years education, graphic symbols, inclusive practice, science education, teaching
Publisher	iSER
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