PERC 2009 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Probing Student Understanding of Cosmology |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | Recently, powerful new observations and advances in computation and visualization have led to a revolution in our understanding of the origin, evolution and structure of the universe. These gains have been vast, but their impact on education has been limited. At Chicago State (CSU), we are implementing new inquiry-based instructional materials in our astronomy lab course. We are researching the effectiveness of these materials, focusing on student understanding of cosmology. As part of a collaborative effort with the University of Nevada Las Vegas and Sonoma State (SSU) to develop a cosmological subject inventory, we administered an open-ended survey prior to instruction and conducted student interviews using the survey. Students taking the CSU course were also required to write a guided essay on their beliefs about cosmology. We have collected open-ended post-test data through student exams. Preliminary results regarding student misconceptions in cosmology and student attitudes toward inquiry will be presented. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Geraldine Cochran Chicago State University 9501 S. King Drive Chicago, IL 60628 Phone: 773-995-2172 Fax: 919-802-0884 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Donna Larrieu, Kim Coble; Chicago State University Janelle Bailey, Roxanne Sanchez; University of Nevada Las Vegas Lynn Cominsky, Kevin McLin; Sonoma State University |
