The POE strategy (predict- observe- explain) was developed by White and Gunstone (1992) to uncover individual students’ predictions, and their reasons for making these, about a specific event. The strategy allows students to reflect on their experiences with and understanding of a subject before making a prediction about the outcome of an experiment and discussing the prediction with classmates. Following up this discussion with observations and then explanations of the outcome gives students a more in-depth understanding of the subject at hand. Additionally, the POE strategy helps teachers gain insight into students’ thinking throughout the learning process.
Practicing the POE strategy also serves to engage students in learning and understanding which is why this strategy works very well with Gizmos.
Sample POE Exploration Sheet: Distance-Time Graphs
Reference: White, R. T., & Gunstone, R. F. (1992). Probing Understanding. Great Britain: Falmer Press.
