PERC 2013 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Factor Analysis of Force Concept Inventory Results |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | The application of factor analysis to the Force Concept Inventory (FCI) has proven to be problematic. Some studies have suggested that factor analysis of test results does serve as a helpful tool in assessing the recognition of Newtonian concepts by students. Other work has produced at best ambiguous results. Our results show that factor analysis of pre-test data produces no factors that can easily be identified with introductory physics concepts. However, analysis of post-test results shows that student responses have changed to the extent that factor analysis reveals five factors that can be associated with specific physics concepts. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
R. D. Dietz University of Northern Colorado Physics Department 501 20th Street Greeley, CO 80639 Phone: 970-351-2950 Fax: 970-351-2962 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Matthew R. Semak - Univ. of Northern Colorado Robert H. Pearson - Univ. of Northern Colorado Courtney W. Willis - Univ. of Northern Colorado |
