Title

Collaborative Research: Research on the Learning and Teaching of Thermal Physics

Investigators

John R. Thompson, Principal Investigator; University of Maine, Orono

Additional Participants

Senior Personnel

Donald Mountcastle

Post-doc

Warren Christensen

Graduate Student

Brandon Bucy

Evan Pollock

Organizational Partners

University of Washington

Project Period

July 2007-January 2008

Level of Access

Open-Access Report

Grant Number

0406764

Submission Date

3-29-2008

Abstract

Groups at Iowa State University and the University of Maine will collaborate in a coordinated program of research and research-based curriculum development in thermal physics, targeting both introductory general physics courses and advanced-level undergraduate courses. The research component involves one-on-one student interviews, written pre- and post-test questions, and multiple-choice surveys. This research is then applied to the development of curricular materials intended to improve student understanding in a manner consistent with active-learning methods previously shown be effective in physics instruction. The curriculum will in turn be evaluated for its effectiveness at addressing the student difficulties previously identified through research.

This project will provide insight into student learning of fundamental concepts in thermal physics. Instructional materials will be designed specifically to address student difficulties found in the research, and will utilize proven pedagogical techniques to increase their effectiveness. The dissemination of both the research results and of the curricular materials will improve instruction in thermal physics nationally and internationally.

Rights and Access Note

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Recommended Citation

Thompson, John R., "Collaborative Research: Research on the Learning and Teaching of Thermal Physics" (2008). University of Maine Office of Research Administration: Grant Reports. 254.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/orsp_reports/254