Utility of Concept Cartoons in Diagnosing and Overcoming Misconceptions Related to Photosynthesis

In this study, the effectiveness of concept cartoons in diagnosing and overcoming students’
misconceptions related to photosynthesis subject was examined. Firstly, the literature has been thoroughly examined
and misconceptions about photosynthesis subject have been listed and then grouped. Concept cartoons related to
these groups have been prepared and were introduced to the students in order to identify their misconceptions.
Similar misconceptions as in the literature have been found. Then, new concept cartoons addressing to elimination
of these misconceptions have been prepared and were used in class discussions. The excerpts from these discussions
and after-class student interviews show that concept cartoons may be an efficient tool not only to identify student
misconceptions but also to overcome them. The compatibility of this method (utilization of concept cartoon-based
teaching) with constructivist approach was also discussed.