Thinking Like a Physicist: Transforming Upper-Division Electricity \& Magnetism (E\&M)

ORAL

Abstract

We are often disappointed in physics students' skills -- such as the ability to justify problem-solving strategies, choose and apply problem-solving techniques, and recognize the interconnectedness of ideas in physics. We use research-based methods to transform junior E\&M to explicitly define and address these learning goals and help students become more sophisticated thinkers through active engagement. We used the principles of learning theory to guide teaching practices, and student observations and interviews to identify common student difficulties with the course content. The transformed course included consensus learning goals, interactive lecture with ``clicker'' questions and small group activities, weekly tutorials, homework study groups, and a conceptual diagnostic assessment. We will highlight key results regarding course effectiveness.

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Authors

  • Stephanie Chasteen

    University of Colorado

  • Irvinder Kaur

    University of Colorado, University of Southern Virginia, University of New Hampshire, University of New England, Southern Virginia University, Bridgewater State College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, SciPrint.org

  • Irvinder Kaur

    University of Colorado, University of Southern Virginia, University of New Hampshire, University of New England, Southern Virginia University, Bridgewater State College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, SciPrint.org

  • Irvinder Kaur

    University of Colorado, University of Southern Virginia, University of New Hampshire, University of New England, Southern Virginia University, Bridgewater State College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, SciPrint.org

  • Irvinder Kaur

    University of Colorado, University of Southern Virginia, University of New Hampshire, University of New England, Southern Virginia University, Bridgewater State College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, SciPrint.org

  • Irvinder Kaur

    University of Colorado, University of Southern Virginia, University of New Hampshire, University of New England, Southern Virginia University, Bridgewater State College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, SciPrint.org