Workshop: W-C

Laboratory Mathematics and Science for Cognitive Development -- Dealing with the Real Level of our Physics Students

Organizer:  Jerome Epstein (jepstein@duke.poly.edu), Polytechnic University
When (Where):   8:15 – 9:45 (Folsom Room)  &  3:45 – 5:15 (Auburn Room)

Description: This is a hands-on session allowing participants to experience directly material from the beginning, middle, and end of a comprehensive integrated program in basic mathematics and science, designed specifically to promote formal level thinking, developed 20 years ago under NSF sponsorship. Diagnostic testing shows that far more students than is commonly known enter physics with cognition and basic quantitative skills far lower than most believe, and probably far too low to benefit sufficiently from even high quality Interactive Engagement physics programs. The program is designed to meet this need. It has been well tested and information on outcomes will be available. The program is designed to gradually produce higher level thinking and skill levels, taking students in two semesters from having no concept of fractions and decimals to doing numerical calculus, and Newtonian kinematics and dynamics without resort to memorized formulas. Gains in basic skills are high and success in succeeding courses is increased. The presenter will suggest a trial of this program, for those who test as needing it, preceding a good I-E physics program. The overall normalized gain can be compared with those who test similarly on basic skills, but go directly into physics without this program.