Conveners
GB. New Developments in Physics Education
- Per Arne Rikvold (Florida State University)
Mr
Brandon Lunk
(North Carolina State University)
10/21/11, 8:30 AM
Invited
Computational modeling is a central enterprise in both theoretical and experimental physics but it can also be an excellent means for students in the introductory courses to develop a deeper conceptual understanding of fundamental physics principles. Many instructional benefits are associated with computational modeling, including visualizing 3D phenomena, modeling complex, real-world systems,...
Renee Michelle Goertzen
(Florida International University)
10/21/11, 9:00 AM
Invited
We describe the ongoing physics transformation underway at Florida International University (FIU), highlighting activities that target institutionalization of innovative physics practices. We report on several coherent efforts to improve the undergraduate physics instruction at FIU. These programs include Modeling Instruction, a studio based, integrated lab-lecture course in which students...
Gerald Feldman
(George Washington University)
10/21/11, 9:30 AM
Invited
The time-honored conventional lecture ("teaching by telling") has been shown to be an ineffective mode of instruction for science classes. In these cases, where the enhancement of critical thinking skills and the development of problem-solving abilities are emphasized, collaborative group learning environments have proven to be far more effective. In addition, students naturally improve their...
38.
Transforming Introductory Physics for Life Scientists: Researching the consequences for students
Dr
Chandra Turpen
(University of Maryland)
10/21/11, 10:00 AM
Invited
In response to policy documents calling for dramatic changes in pre-medical and biology education [1-3], the physics and biology education research groups at the University of Maryland are rethinking how to teach physics to life science majors. As an interdisciplinary team, we are drastically reconsidering the physics topics relevant for these courses. We are designing new in-class tasks to...
