Historical teaching of atomic and molecular structure
pp. 343-374
in: Michael R. Matthews (ed), International handbook of research in history, philosophy and science teaching, Berlin, Springer, 2014Abstract
Besides the presentation and conclusions, the chapter is divided into two equally important sections. The first one describes the modern development of atomic and molecular structure, emphasising some of the philosophical problems that have been taken, and those that have to be faced in its understanding. The second discusses the alternative conceptions and difficulties of students of different educational levels and also the different approaches to its historical or philosophical teaching. Finally, we recognise the necessity for science teachers to assume a specific historical-philosophical position.