weak anthropomorphism

Categories: Site glossary

anthropomorphic language may be used in a metaphoric sense, where it is not intended to be taken literally (e.g., 'I think the weather must hate me'). Teachers may use anthropomorphism as a way to help  'make the unfamiliar familiar' to learners, but sometimes the students inappropriately accept the anthropomorphic ideas as scientifically acceptable mechanisms/explanations (i.e., 'the atom needs another electron') leading to strong anthropomorphism

Read about 'Anthropomorphism – Learners' anthropomorphic thinking'

 

Author: Keith

Former school and college science teacher, teacher educator, research supervisor, and research methods lecturer. Emeritus Professor of Science Education at the University of Cambridge.