Equations in Scientific Proofs: Effects on Comprehension

The effect of equations in scientific proofs on readers' comprehension was studied. Forty college undergraduates solved unfamiliar physics problems with or without a traditional series of related equations. Verbal proofs produced better responses than did equation-based proofs. Equations in pro...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inAmerican educational research journal Vol. 28; no. 3; p. 661
Main Authors Dee-Lucas, Diana, Larkin, Jill H
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published 01.10.1991
Subjects
Comparative Analysis
Equations (Mathematics)
Higher Education
Instructional Materials
Mathematical Concepts
Physics
Readability
Reading Comprehension
Science Materials
Scientific Essays
Text Structure
Undergraduate Students
Online AccessGet more information

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Summary:The effect of equations in scientific proofs on readers' comprehension was studied. Forty college undergraduates solved unfamiliar physics problems with or without a traditional series of related equations. Verbal proofs produced better responses than did equation-based proofs. Equations in proofs cause readers to shift attention away from nonequational content. (SLD)
ISSN:0002-8312
DOI:10.3102/00028312028003661