PERC 2015 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Framework for Understanding Introductory Students' Application of Integrals in Physics Problem Solving |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | The concepts of differentiation and integration are important tools for solving physics problems. Research in physics education has reported students' lack of ability to transfer their calculus knowledge to physics problem solving. We conducted group teaching/learning interviews with 13 students to investigate their reasoning in setting up integrals in the context of E&M. We proposed a conceptual framework by integrating aspects of several theoretical constructs-mathematical resources, conceptual metaphors, and conceptual blending to help us understand student use of calculus concept in physics. The main contributions of this research include (1) providing evidence for the existence of symbolic forms in students' reasoning about differentials and integrals, (2) identifying conceptual metaphors involved in student reasoning, (3) categorizing the different ways in which students integrate their mathematics and physics knowledge in the context of solving physics integration problems. |
| Abstract Type: | Symposium Talk |
| Parallel Session: | Research on student conceptions of integration in math and physics |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Dehui Hu Rochester Institute of Technology |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
N. Sanjay Rebello, Kansas State University |
