PERC 2015 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Students’ Approaches to Solving Synthesis Problems |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | This study explores students' approaches to handling synthesis problems with 3 levels of mathematical complexity: simplest to most complex whereby the equations become increasingly more complex while the physics remains the same. Individual interviews were conducted with 13 students. Based on the written solutions and interview responses, four main profiles emerged, providing a holistic view of the students' approaches to solving the synthesis problems: (i) Trial and Error; (ii) Flawed Reasoning; (iii) Knowledgeable, and (iv) Expert approach. Students who attempted the simplest problem tend to use the "Knowledgeable" or "Expert" strategy. Those who solved the complex and most complex tasks employed the "Trial and Error" or "Flawed Reasoning" approach. Regardless of the task's mathematical complexity, the students were able to recognize the relevant concepts. However, they failed to correctly apply these concepts with the occurrence of the same kinds of physics mistakes across the three versions of the task. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Bashirah Ibrahim The Ohio State University, School of Teaching and Learning 231 Arps Hall, 1945 N. High street Columbus, OH 43210 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Daniel White - The Ohio State University, Department of Physics. Ryan Badeau - The Ohio State University, Department of Physics. Lin Ding - The Ohio State University, School of Teaching and Learning. Andrew Heckler - The Ohio State University, Department of Physics. |
