Color Me Chameleon

Of the 30 people we interviewed, only two people did not hold a misconception regarding the reasons chameleons change color.  Incorrect answers varied greatly from “they get bored” to “adaptation".  The most popular response, however, was “camouflage".  

 

As the purpose of this assignment was to understand where misconceptions come from, the most interesting aspect of the interview was hearing their response to the question, "Where did you learn this?”  Thinking metacognitively, or about how they came to know this information, is not a task undertaken frequently.  The mixed look of curiosity and confusion when asked alone was entertaining.  Responses to where they learned this information also varied greatly.  Most thought they learned this information from home or school.  However, others made note of learning from the internet or television.

 

Perhaps the most telling research we found regarding this information regarded anoles.  Scientists originally thought that chameleons, much like anoles, changed color to camouflage themselves from predators.  Further research, however, indicated this was incorrect.  Chameleons actually change color due to temperature most often although they can often change at times due to nerve stimulation or mood.

As educators, it is important we realize that our students may have a variety of misconceptions which interfere with their learning.  It is important that we consider these misconceptions when developing our lessons.