PERC 2016 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Investigating students’ understanding of ac biasing networks* |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | As part of an ongoing effort to investigate the learning and teaching of bipolar junction transistor circuits (e.g., the common-emitter amplifier) in physics and engineering courses, we have begun to examine student understanding of ac biasing networks. These biasing networks are critical for signal processing via transistor circuits, yet the coverage of such networks in both courses and texts is typically sparse and frequently secondary to coverage of the amplifier circuits themselves. In this cross-disciplinary project, we have been examining the extent to which students are able to correctly predict the behavior of the biasing network under both dc and ac conditions. Specific examples of student work are used to highlight the most prevalent conceptual and reasoning difficulties identified. Implications for instruction emerging from this investigation will also be discussed. *This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant Nos. DUE-1323426 and DUE-0962805. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Kevin L. Van De Bogart University of Maine Orono, ME 04469 Phone: 4026376011 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
MacKenzie R. Stetzer |
