Turkish Students’ Understandings about Some Basic Astronomy Concepts: A Cross-Grade Study

Abstract

In the present study, students’ ideas concerning some basic astronomy concepts are investigated. One hundred and sixty-two Turkish students at different grades (from primary and secondary school levels) participated in this study. Data of the study were gathered using a test, which required participants to present their answers by both writing and drawing. The results revealed that participants at all grades were not sufficient at written and visual responses, including many alternative ideas. It is thought that the results of this study will extend the related literature and make contribution to the development of astronomy education