A critical review of the refutation text literature: Methodological confounds, theoretical problems, and possible solutions

Refutation texts, rhetorical tools designed to reduce misconceptions, have garnered attention across four decades and many studies. Yet, the ability of a refutation text change learner’s mind on topic needs be qualified modulated. In this critical review, we bring sources constraints often overlooked by researchers. Methodological issues identified centered problems using single (or very few) within study, role testing in conceptual change, durability beyond an immediate posttest. Theoretical included interpretation attentional measures, what knowledge domains lend themselves refutation, makes refutational, unexplored assumptions about how occurs. We sought clarify texts may function as antidote misconceptions future research can better inform understanding phenomenon.