This study investigates sixth and eighth graders’ understanding of the differences and similarities between smartphone and desktop hardware components. Through semi-structured online interviews with 49 students, the research reveals that children most often compared the number or size of components in the devices, or noted that both types of devices have some components (e.g., memory) but not others (e.g., fan). Additionally, eighth graders, compared to sixth graders, tended to possess more scientifically accurate views, particularly in recognising key components like processors in both smartphones and desktops and were more likely to be aware of invisible components (e.g., processor). These findings underscore the importance of tailoring educational materials to address these preconceptions. Future work will focus on de- veloping educational resources that deepen students’ understanding of desktop architecture and components, guiding them from intuitive no- tions to scientifically grounded knowledge.
Citation: Anna Yaghobová, Anna Drobná, Marek Urban, and Cyril Brom (2024). Poster “Are the Insides of a Smartphone Different from a Desktop?”: Study about Preconceptions of 6th and 8th Graders Comparing Hardware Components. ISSEP 2024 - The 17th International Conference on Informatics in Schools: Situation, Evolution and Perspectives, Budapest, Hungary.
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