PHYSICS SEMINAR
Douglas
T. Young
Department of Physics
Mercer University
Wednesday,
February 18, 2004
Willet Science Center 101
"Student Understanding of Mechanical Waves"
Abstract: One of the most frustrating experiences for physics instructors is having students perform poorly on tests and quizzes after carefully going over the material in class. Physics education research tries to close this gap between what we try to teach and what students actually learn. This is typically done by interviewing students about their thought process while solving problems as a way to understand the mental models they are using. This talk will focus on work done by physics education researchers to explore student understanding of mechanical waves. The methods used to probe student understanding and the conclusions drawn from these investigations will be discussed. Suggestions for modifying instruction based on this research will also be presented.Please
join us for light refreshments outside WSC 109 at 4:15.