Undergraduate Students\u27 Mental Model of Cell Biology

A descriptive study of future teacher students\u27 mental models of essential concepts in Cell Biology was carried out through explanatory mixed-methods. Some students (n=40) of Biology Education Universitas Negeri Semarang were involved as the research subject. We used a diagnostic test, structured interview guides, and field notes to describe students\u27 mental model. In the early stage, we prepare a diagnostic test performed essential concepts of Cell Biology. Secondly, we define students\u27 mental models map based on their answers. Thirdly, we identify factors which affect students\u27 mental models. Exploration of mental models was conducted through structured interviews with students representing each category. The interview focused on reasoning and argumentation students\u27 abilities in answering the question on the test item. The research finding describes that students\u27 mental model in Cell Biology is grouped into three categories, macro-mental to think based of basic content, micro-mental in correlation of content, and intuitive-mental or misconception. This finding can be used in improving research-based learning in Cell Biology