Presentation Schedule
Heuristic vs. Discovery: Mapping the Conceptual Mismatch in Teacher and Student Learning (103995)
Session Chair: Tyrone Leon Ruth
Sunday, 19 April 2026 14:20
Session: Session 3
Room: Room 143A (1F)
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
In an era defined by Artificial Intelligence, which builds its own intelligence upon heuristic algorithms and discovery-based reinforcement learning, re-examining human learning models becomes critical. This study aims to identify and map the conceptual structures of "effective learning" held by both teachers and students, analyzing the spectrum between Heuristic Learning (defined as rule-based, algorithmic, and outcome-focused) and Discovery Learning (defined as inquiry-based, process-oriented, and emotionally-driven). This research utilizes a qualitative thematic analysis of 24 in-depth teacher interviews and 24 student focus groups (N=198) conducted in Georgian public schools. Findings revealed three distinct teacher archetypes: 1) "Heuristic Masters," who measure effectiveness by procedural compliance and standardized test results; 2) "Explorers," who prioritize emotional safety and non-formulaic, emergent processes over rigid plans; and 3) "Expert Strategists," who consciously synthesize both models, using heuristics as a scaffold for discovery. The most significant finding is the "Student Paradox": students’ stated goals for learning are purely heuristic (extrinsic rewards like grades, future jobs, and money), while their desired learning process is purely discovery-based (creative projects, play, group work, and experimentation). This study indicates that students instinctively demand a sophisticated "expert synthesis," yet much of the teaching practice observed remains polarized. This creates a critical mismatch between pedagogical delivery and student cognitive and emotional needs in the modern classroom.
Authors:
Ia Aptarashvili, Tbilisi State University, Georgia
Mzia Tsereteli, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Georgia
About the Presenter(s)
Professor Ia Aptarashvili is currently at at Tbilisi State University in Georgia
See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule
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