Learning from First principles. A STEAM approach.

ORAL

Abstract

Students confront difficulties as a result of misunderstandings and misinterpretations of basic scientific principles. J. Felix created original, one-of-a-kind prototypes, which he planned, designed, built, and tested. Students in Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism, in particular, confront misconceptions that lead them away from the real world and lead them to copy obsolete and, in some cases, inappropriate textbooks.

These prototypes represent a breakthrough in experimental physics, particularly in the learning process, where they are proving to be crucial in the development of cognitive skills required for success in physics careers.

Some of these prototypes have been put to the test in the STEAM program around the world, with over 11,400 participants ranging in age from 13 to 24.  Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism original prototypes that will be featured in the Great Lessons in Physics book series are exhibited.

*The authors kindly acknoledge support from Laboratorio Internacional de Partículas Elementales, Universidad de Guanajuato and STEAM Program with support from US Embassy in Guatemala.

Presenters

  • Julian Felix Valdez

    • Universidad de Guanajuato

Authors

  • Magdalena Waleska Aldana Segura

    • American Physical Society
  • Julian Felix Valdez

    • Universidad de Guanajuato