Studies on visual and spatial modes in science learning

Previously considered an untractable area for study, recent research in developmental psychology, cognitive science and history of science is helping science educationists develop a framework for research on visual and spatial modes in science learning. My own research on students' conceptions in science, done during the 1980s and 1990s, included studies of students' drawings and schematic diagrams. Recent projects include ``Visuals and visualisaton of human body systems'', ``Spatial cognition and visualisaton in elementary astromomy education'', ``Visualising the water cycle'' and ``Mental visualisation of structure of the DNA molecule''. This research has received recognition in the spatial cognition as well as science education communities.

I guest-edited a 2009 Special Issue of the International Journal of Science Education on visual and spatial modes in science learning. My lead paper in this issue is to be featured as one of 200 articles on a web-based research resource for informal science educators being developed by The Exploratorium, San Francisco, the LIFE Center at the University of Washington and King's College London.

Website: http://www.hbcse.tifr.res.in/vthinking