| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 349051 | Computers & Education | 2011 | 10 Pages |
Hypothesis development is a complex cognitive activity, but one that is critical as a means of reducing uncertainty during ill-structured problem solving. In this study, we examined the effect of metacognitive scaffolds in strengthening hypothesis development. We also examined the influence of hypothesis development on young adolescents’ problem-solving performance. Data was collected from sixth-grade students (N = 172) using a computer-supported problem-based learning environment, Animal Investigator. The findings of the study indicated that participants using metacognitive scaffolds developed significantly better hypotheses and that hypothesis-development performance was predictive of solution-development performance. This article discusses further educational implications of the findings and future research.
► We examine the effect of metacognitive scaffolds in strengthening hypothesis development. ► We examine the influence of hypothesis development on young adolescents' problem-solving performance. ► Participants using metacognitive scaffolds developed significantly better hypotheses. ► Hypothesis-development performance was predictive of solution-development performance.
