PERC 2015 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | PER in an Upper-Level Introductory Condensed Matter Course |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | We describe the initial phase of a project to implement PER-based instructional techniques to study and improve an upper-level introductory condensed matter course. First, we worked closely with the instructor to design and implement online pre-lecture questions and studied student responses to these questions. The questions were conceptual and/or diagrammatic in nature. A final question prompted students to ask questions or describe areas of confusion, which were address in the following lecture. Second, we conducted exploratory interviews to identify student difficulties with the course material. Finally, we compiled course materials, including pre-lecture questions, homework, exams, and lecture notes, as a resource for other instructors. Feedback from the instructors and students about the pre-lecture questions was positive. Here we present preliminary results obtained from student responses to the pre-lecture questions and interviews which highlight student difficulties in interpreting band diagrams, determining crystal structures, and utilizing concepts related to the Fermi energy. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Abigail M. Bogdan The Ohio State University 191 West Woodruff Ave. Columbus, OH 43210 Phone: (402) 599-0199 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Andrew H. Heckler, The Ohio State University Christopher Porter, The Ohio State University |
