PERC 2015 Abstract Detail Page
Previous Page | New Search | Browse All
| Abstract Title: | Student Thinking About the Divergence and Curl in Mathematics and Physics Contexts |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | Undergraduate physics students are known to have difficulties with understanding mathematical tools, and with applying their knowledge of mathematics to physical contexts. Using survey statements based on open-ended questions and student interviews, we investigated the prevalence of correct and incorrect conceptions regarding the divergence and curl of vector fields among both mathematics and physics students. We find significant differences in the survey responses given by physics majors and mathematics majors enrolled in the same vector calculus course. We also compare pre- and post-instruction responses from students taking intermediate-level electromagnetism courses at the University of St Andrews and KU Leuven. Although their understanding of the divergence and curl improved, relatively few electromagnetism students were able to provide completely correct survey responses at mid-semester. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Charles Baily University of St Andrews School of Physics and Astronomy St Andrews, Scotland, Non U.S. KY16 9SS |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Laurens Bollen, KU Leuven, Belgium Andrew Pattie, University of St Andrews, Scotland Paul van Kampen, Dublin City University, Ireland Mieke De Cock, KU Leuven, Belgium |
