PERC 2013 Abstract Detail Page
Previous Page | New Search | Browse All
Abstract Title: | The role of interest in the effect of including life science contexts in introductory physics |
---|---|
Abstract: | We examined the impact of preexisting interest in physics on undergraduate student responses to the insertion of life science contexts into an introductory-level physics course for nonmajors, using an end-of-semester survey. Our findings suggest that inserting life science context into the content of the courses influenced students differentially based on their level of preexisting interest in physics.Taken together with results from the CLASS survey, these findings suggest that certain types of life science contexts in introductory physics can support students whose initial interest in physics is less developed to deepen their interest; however, not all contexts are equally effective. |
Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
Primary Contact: |
Catherine H. Crouch Swarthmore College Department of Physics 500 College Ave Swarthmore, PA 19081 Phone: 610-328-8386 Fax: 610-328-7895 |
Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Panchompoo Wisittanawat, Swarthmore College Departments of Physics and Educational Studies K. Ann Renninger, Swarthmore College Department of Educational Studies |