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Abstract Title: Designing a lab course from the perspective of flow theory
Abstract: Creating an inquiry-based lab course, where students design their own experiments, can be a challenging task. It requires a delicate balance between difficulty of tasks and students skills and abilities. Here we describe an attempt of using the flow theory[1] for converting traditional lab course into ISLE design labs. We analyze students' feedback and revise the course within the flow theory framework. It appears to be a powerful tool for decreasing frustration often associated with open-ended labs, and for improving students attitude towards the labs. This method allows us to create an environment where students consider designing an experiment as a challenging but exciting activity.

[1] Csíkszentmihályi, Mihály (1990), Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, New York: Harper and Row
Abstract Type: Symposium Talk
Parallel Session: The role of design in labs

Author/Organizer Information

Primary Contact: Anna Karelina
California State university, East Bay