PERC 2019 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Students' Understanding of Matrix Algebra and Eigentheory |
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| Abstract: | As part of a project involving research on student use of mathematics in upper division physics, we have investigated student understanding of matrix algebra and eigentheory in the context of a mathematical methods course for physics majors. We focus on student written responses to three free-response questions that involve these applications. Students displayed proficiency with the procedures of matrix multiplication and determining eigenvalues with pure numbers; however, students struggle with carrying out the same calculations when given matrices with symbols rather than just pure numbers. As a result, many students misinterpret the variables and their individual meanings or physical interpretations. This work is supported by the NSF through grant PHYS-1405616. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
| Session Time: | Poster Session I |
| Poster Number: | A88 |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Pachi Her California State University, Fullerton 800 N State College Blvd Fullerton, CA 92831 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Michael Loverude California State University, Fullerton |
