PERC 2011 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Graphical Representations of Vector Functions in Upper-division E&M |
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| Abstract: | In upper division electricity and magnetism, the manipulation and interpretation of vector functions is pervasive and a significant challenge to students. At CSU San Marcos, using in-class activities adapted from the Oregon State University Paradigms in Physics Curriculum, students' difficulties with vector functions become evident in two types of in-class activities: sketching vector functions and relating vector and scalar functions (e.g., electric field and electric potential). For many students, the cause of these difficulties is a failure to fully distinguish between the components of a vector function and its coordinate variables. To address this difficulty, we implement an additional in-class activity requiring students to translate between graphical and algebraic representations of vector functions. We present our experience with these issues, how to address them, and how in-class activities can provide evidence of student thinking that facilitates curricular refinement. |
| Abstract Type: | Gallery Session Poster |
| Poster Gallery Session: | Representation Issues: Using Mathematics in Upper-Division Physics |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Edward Price Cal. State Univ. San Marcos |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Elizabeth Gire, University of Memphis |
