Errors in previous work impede the learning of new concepts
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 79/100
Errors, misconceptions, and flawed prior knowledge act as barriers to acquiring new concepts, but targeted educational interventions like refutational texts and error-based concept mapping can successfully overcome these cognitive impediments.
Evidence for · 5
Using Concept Maps With Errors to Identify Misconceptions
2020 · cited by 3
Paper 1 demonstrates that using concept maps with embedded errors successfully identifies and challenges student misconceptions, revealing how prior misunderstandings impede learning progress.
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More for · 4
THE EFFECT OF CONCEPTUAL CHANGE TEXTS ON FOURTH GRADE STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT, SCIENTIFIC PROCESS SKILLS, ATTITUDES TOWARDS SCIENCE AND OVERCOMING OF MISCONCEPTIONS
2020 · cited by 1
Paper 2 shows that conceptual change texts, which specifically target and correct prior misconceptions, improve students' academic achievement and help them overcome barriers to learning new concepts.
An extended refutation text and funny videos reduce notorious p-value misconceptions.
2026 · cited by 0
Paper 9 establishes that refutation texts effectively correct deeply ingrained statistical misconceptions, facilitating conceptual change among students.
Misconceptions and Lack of Knowledge of Self-Regulation of Learning Hinder Students' Use of Self-Regulation Strategies and Their Achievement: How This Can Be Changed by a Model-Based Instructional Video.
2026 · cited by 0
Paper 10 finds that initial misconceptions and lack of knowledge regarding self-regulation hinder students' acquisition of new strategies, which can be mitigated by addressing these errors.
Changing Pre-Service Teachers' Beliefs About Self-Regulated Learning: The Role of Refutational Texts and Instructional Analogies.
2025 · cited by 0
Paper 11 highlights that refutational instructional materials successfully reduce inconsistent prior beliefs and misconceptions, thereby helping learners adopt new pedagogical concepts.