A Systematic Review of Methods and Characteristics of Assessing Understanding of the Nature of Science

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to derive the types, characteristics, historical evolution, and issues for future research on assessment methods of understanding of the Nature of Science (NOS). The assessment methods for NOS understanding were extracted from an article database, and 69 assessment methods were identified. These assessment methods differed in response format and subjects, and there was some bias in the elements measured. Finally, we summarized issues for future research from the three viewpoints of “What should be assessed as NOS understanding,” “What methods should be used for assessment,” and “What is the purpose of assessment”.