Moments of Confusion in Simulation-Based Learning Environments

Abstract

Confusion is an important epistemic emotion because it can help students focus their attention and effort when solving complex learning tasks. However, unresolved confusion can be detrimental because it may result in students’ disengagement. This is especially concerning in simulation environments using discovery-based learning, which puts more of the onus for learning on the students. Thus, students with misconceptions may become confused. In this study, the possible moments of confusion in a simulation-based predict-observe-explain (POE) environment were investigated. Log-based interaction patterns of undergraduate students from a fully online course were analyzed. It was found that POE en..