What microscopic explanations can students give about the electric current?

In this paper we present views of the students of the Alexandroupolis Department of Elementary Education on the electric current at a microscopic level, as revealed through their written responses to an extensive questionnaire predominantly comprising open questions. The objective of our research is to investigate the ability of students to provide microscopic explanations of electrical phenomena in alignment with the scientific model. Employing a quantitative approach supported by limited qualitative research, our findings indicate that a significant majority of students struggle to offer satisfactory microscopic explanations for electrical phenomena. This observation aligns with previous literature highlighting the challenges in understanding electrical concepts at the microscopic level among learners. Despite prior instruction on conductivity and the internal structure of materials, many students display a lack of comprehension regarding fundamental principles such as charge conservation and the behavior of electrons within conductors. Our results underscore the necessity for enhanced teaching interventions that effectively bridge students' understanding of macroscopic and microscopic electrical concepts.