1Third Misconceptions Seminar Proceedings (1993) Paper Title: Meaningful Learning: The Essential Factor for Conceptual Change in Limited or Inappropriate Propositional Hierarchies (LIPHs) Leading to Empowerment of Learners

Abstract: The construction of meanings by learners requires that they actively seek to integrate new knowledge with knowledge already in cognitive structure. Ausubel’s (1963, 1968) assimilation theory of cognitive learning has been shown to be effective in guiding research and instructional design to facilitate meaningful learning. Gowin’s (1981) Vee heuristic has been employed effectively to aid teachers and students in understanding the constructed nature of knowledge. Concept mapping has been used effectively to aid meaningful learning with resulting modification of student’s Limited or Inapproproate Propositional Hierarchies (LIPH’s). conceptual change requires meaningful learning to modify LIPH’s. World-wide economic changes are forcing major changes in business and industry placing a premium on the power and value of knowledge and new knowledge production. These changes require changes in school and university education that centers on the nature and power of meaningful learning