Effects of a Microcomputer-Based Laboratory on the Triple-Representation of a Preservice Chemistry Teacher: An Eye-Tracking Design and Evidence

Numerous academic studies in the field of chemical education utilize the conceptual framework of three distinct tiers that underlie the instruction and acquisition of chemical knowledge. This framework is commonly depicted in a chemistry triangle, with the vertices denoted as macroscopic, submicroscopic, and symbolic. The ability of students to effectively convert between various representations and develop triple representation thinking can be advantageous in comprehending chemical concepts and the underlying micro essence. However, studies have shown that students have certain difficulties with triple representation. A microcomputer-based laboratory provides students with intuitive material by dynamically presenting data images in real time, helping students transfer among triple representations. This study investigated the effect of a microcomputer-based laboratory on the triple representation of a chemistry lesson based on eye-tracking evidence. The experimental group (N = 14) completed the test by watching the experimental video of the microcomputer-based laboratory, while the control group (N = 13) watched the traditional experimental video. Eye-tracking was used to make real-time recordings of the experimental procedures carried out by each of the groups. By comparing the triple representation test results and eye-tracking indicators of the two groups, the results show that a microcomputer-based laboratory has a positive effect on the triple representation, and the experimental group performed significantly better when acquiring image information under the influence of the microcomputer-based laboratory.