INVISIBLE MISCONCEPTIONS: STUDENT UNDERSTANDING OF ULTRAVIOLET AND INFRARED RADIATION

Although student understanding of visible light and the mechanisms associated with vision and color have been extensively researched, preconceptions about non-visible light remain unstudied. In an attempt to ascertain student understanding of ultraviolet and infrared radiation, a questionnaire was disseminated to 300 grade 6-12 students, 25 teachers, and eight scientists. A discussion with six teachers and in-depth interviews with two scientists and eleven students were also conducted. Wide spread preconceptions include: 1) Ultraviolet radiation is a type of visible light coming from the Sun, often described as very bright. A few students also described a connection between ultraviolet light and the ozone layer; 2) Students typically held negative associations with ultraviolet radiation, including its dangerous or deadly potential, especially with relation to skin cancer; 3) Humans can see certain objects in the presence of ultraviolet radiation only; 4) All types of ultraviolet radiation, just like visible light, can penetrate glass; 5) The relationships between visible light, ultraviolet radiation, sunburns, and skin cancer as expressed by students demonstrate confusion. Sunburn is often associated with visible light; and 6) Students did not have a developed concept about infrared radiation. Although students demonstrated knowledge of infrared, for instance the military use of infrared goggles, they did not have a clear understanding of what the term infrared means. In summation, preliminary data indicates that students of all ages have alternative views of light, most of which are based on their perceptual and life experiences. Additionally, teachers and high school physics students, even those in honors physics, have an incomplete view of ultraviolet and infrared radiation.