Perception of First-Year Geology Students on the Tectonic Plates Theory

Abstract

This paper examines alternative ideas and perceptions of first-year students of the Department of Geology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, on the theory of tectonic plates, prior to completion of relevant courses. There is partial confusion both in terms of the conceptual background, as well as on the causal links between geological phenomena associated with the movement of tectonic plates. One out of two questioned students has systematic and consistent knowledge on the principles of the theory of tectonic plates, both at a conceptual and at a deterministic level, as well as in terms of geometric, kinematic and dynamic analysis.