Spring
2012
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18
CONTENTS
This award is presented to a DVI member
whose dissertation makes a significant contribution
to the field of blindness and visual impairment or
deafblindness through extensive study and rigorous
research.
Dr. Wild���s dissertation, ���Students��� with Visual
Impairments Conceptions of Causes of Seasonal
Change,��� was a qualitative study that explored
misconceptions students with visual impairments
had regarding the scientific processes of seasonal
change. Instructional techniques that facilitated
accurate understanding of these concepts were
also investigated. This study included seven
students with visual impairments in two different
seventh-grade science classes. One group of
students received instruction using traditional
methods (e.g., textbook readings, lectures, and 3-D
models) while the other group received instruction
using inquiry-based methods (e.g., student
generated models, graphing activities, and 3-D
models). Both teachers were certified in the area of
science but not yet certified teachers of students
with visual impairments. Data was collected via
student and teacher interviews, which was then
analyzed using constant comparative methodology.
The results of this study supported the hypothesis
that inquiry-based instruction facilitates the
development of accurate scientific concepts better
than traditional instruction.
