Description

Randomness and probability play an essential role in many areas of science. However, previous studies in mathematics education research and psychology indicated that adolescents have problems understanding random processes. Indeed, this doctoral research project showed that students’ conceptions on probability and randomness have an impact on the understanding of random physical processes, e.g. the transformation of unstable atomic nuclei. Based on this result, a learning unit on probability theory in the context of radioactivity was developed and evaluated with 17- to 18-year-old German-speaking students within an iterative design-based research project. In summary, the doctoral research project led to a successful learning unit which demonstrates the feasibility of an adequate and plausible introduction to radioactivity using probability theory.

• Annotated learning unit about radioactivity and probability theory