Knowledge enrichment and conceptual change in folkbiology: evidence from Williams syndrome

A study was conducted to analyze the ability of adolescents and adults with Williams syndrome to acquire conceptual change concepts using an empirical approach. Materials on the development of folkbiology were used as probes for biological understanding. The probes were then categorized into two batteries according to the hypothesized distinction of general knowledge and folkbiological concepts. Results indicated that persons with Williams syndrome had a differential impairment in acquiring conceptual change concepts.