The requirement for a method of capturing problem solving on a whiteboard for later replay stems from my teaching load, which includes two classes of first-year university general physics, each with relatively large class sizes of approximately 80-100 students. Most university-level teachers value one-to-one interaction with the students and find…

A description of the measurement procedure, related theory and experimental data analysis of the magnetic susceptibility of materials is given. A short review of previous papers in the line of this subject is presented. This work covers the whole experimental process, in detail, and presents a pragmatic approach for pedagogical sake. (Contains 2…

This article reports on a study that investigated students' metacognitive engagement in both out-of-school and classroom settings, as they participated in an amusement park physics program. Students from two schools that participated in the program worked in groups to collectively solve novel physics problems that engaged their individual…

Presents an operator which transforms quantum functions to solve problems of the stationary state wave functions for a particle and the motion and spreading of a Gaussian wave packet in uniform gravitational fields. (SL)

Presents a completely arithmetic development of Newtonian dynamics in which all classical conservation laws are valid and all equations are in forms amenable to high-speed digital computer computation. (SL)

Discusses cognitive mechanisms facilitating effective problem solving in physics (mechanics). Considers content, organization, and description of the knowledge base facilitating scientific problem solving. Also considers procedures used to describe and analyze a problem initially, to search for its solution, and to assess the solution. Educational…

Applications of physics concepts related to the activities of dinosaurs are presented. Problems of mass, speed and motion, and sound are discussed. Solutions to the problems are shown. (CW)

The main advantage of using these concepts lies in the reduction of algebraic work involved in solving certain dynamics problems. A brief analytical treatment of the acceleration center and a description of a virtual work principle for equipollent systems in the kinetics of rigid bodies are provided. (MVL)

In this dissertation we examine several issues related to the retention of under-represented minority students in physics and science. In the first section, we show that in calculus-based introductory physics courses, the gender gap on the FCI is diminished through the use of interactive techniques, but in lower-level introductory courses, the gap…

The major task in solving a physics problem is to construct an appropriate model of the problem in terms of physical principles. The functions performed by such a model, the information which needs to be represented, and the knowledge used in selecting and instantiating an appropriate model are discussed. An example of a model for a mechanics…

This project had three major goals: (1) investigate the extent to which introductory physics students misuse or misunderstand formulas; (2) catalogue the typical ways in which they do this; and (3) begin the larger task of identifying key types of knowledge that successful problem solvers use to give formulas meaning. Exploratory interviews and…

Describes the differential equation solution to the mechanics problem of the motion of a free mass subject to a harmonic force which can also be illustrated by a simple analogue computer. (SL)

Describes a slide rule which can be used to simplify the quantum mechanics of half-integral spin. (SL)

Describes the criteria used to devise a test to evaluate the experiment-oriented investigative and problem-solving capabilities of students entering an introductory physics course. (Author/GA)

Describes problems that are presented in the form of experiments. The philosophy, method of solution, and several examples of mechanics experiment problems are described. (LZ)