Development and Validation of an Epistemological Profile Questionnaire in a Museum Environment: Analysis of Psychometric Properties and Their Application Using Scientific Apparatus

• Published in: Science & education 2024-06, Vol.33 (3), p.787-809
• Main Authors: Rosalino, Israel, Kasseboehmer, Ana Cláudia
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Education; History; Philosophy of Science; Science Education
• ISSN: 0926-7220; 1573-1901
• DOI: 10.1007/s11191-022-00405-4

Museums and science centers are constantly changing scientific environments which exert a lasting positive impact on the society through the popularization of science. One of the most effective strategies employed by these science popularization venues is the organization of scientific exhibitions using scientific devices which are presented to visitors in an interactive way. In the present study, a questionnaire was developed based on the concept of epistemological profile derived from Gaston Bachelard’s philosophical thoughts, where thorough analyses were carried out with a view to exploring the characteristics of the historical philosophical zones of scientific concepts. The questionnaire was used to analyze the manner in which visitors interacted with museum installations and exhibitions. The proposed instrument was validated using qualitative and quantitative analytical tools. The analysis of the psychometric properties of the questionnaire showed that the proposed instrument is a reliable and valid tool suitable for the purposes intended. The application of the questionnaire using an electromagnetic apparatus and future implications of the analytical instrument were also discussed in this work.