The planning of Chemistry teaching sequences based on the Topological Model of Teaching: potentialities of the EAR (Elaboration, Application and Re-elaboration) process on pre-service teacher education

Abstract: This paper aims to evaluate the influence of the Elaboration, Application and Re-elaboration (EAR) process on the development of pre-service chemistry teachers’ ability to plan teaching sequences. This study consists of document analysis using two different versions of chemistry teaching sequences (TS) produced by pre-service chemistry teachers. The document analysis was carried out based on the Topological Model of Teaching and on a standard tool for TS validation. The data show significant advances in the redesigned TS, which became more cohesive as regards problem-solving, thus fulfilling the role of a structuring element throughout all teaching activities. This gain can be attributed to the assessment of TS from different perspectives, inserted in this virtuous cycle of the EAR movement, which is fundamental to relate specific contents to pedagogical theories, approximating the theoretical planning and concrete professional practice, as well as developing an investigative attitude about teaching activities.