PERC 2012 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | An Expert Path Through a Thermo Maze |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | There have been several studies in recent years that have demonstrated that upper-division students struggle with partial derivatives and the complicated chain rules ubiquitous in thermodynamics. We asked several experts (primarily faculty who teach thermodynamics) to solve a challenging and novel thermodynamics problem to understand how they navigate through this maze. What we found was a tremendous variety in solution strategies and sense-making tools, both within and between individuals. This case study focuses on one particular expert: his solution path and use of sense-making tools. This expert was also asked to work the same problem using differentials (an approach taught in the Paradigms in Physics: Energy and Entropy course). This presentation will also discuss his reflections on how a differential method compared to his own approach and on the utility of using differentials in teaching undergraduates. |
| Abstract Type: | Symposium Poster |
| Targeted Session: | Research on the learning and teaching of Thermodynamics: Insight from many perspectives |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Mary Bridget Kustusch Oregon State University Physics Department 301 Weniger Hall Corvallis, OR 97331-6507 Phone: 773-517-5534 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Corinne Manogue, Oregon State University David Roundy, Oregon State University Tevian Dray, Oregon State University |
Contributed Poster | |
| Contributed Poster: | Download the Contributed Poster |
