Indicates a research-demonstrated benefit
Overview
PUM is a physics/physical science curriculum that strongly links middle and high school physics curricula and builds on the intrinsic mathematical reasoning to develop and strengthen students' mathematical concepts at the pre-algebra, algebra and algebra 2 levels. PUM curriculum consists of logically connected modules that allow students to build their conceptual understanding of physics concepts, develop relevant mathematical reasoning and simultaneously learn how to think like scientists.
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Type of Method | Full curriculum, Curriculum supplement |
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Level |
Designed for:
High School , Middle School
Can be adapted for: Teacher Preparation, Teacher Professional Development, Intro College Calculus-based, Intro College Algebra-based, Intro College Conceptual |
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Setting |
Designed for:
Lecture - Small (<30 students), Recitation/Discussion Session, Lab, Homework
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Coverage | Few topics with great depth |
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Topics | Mechanics, Electricity / Magnetism |
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Instructor Effort | High |
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Resource Needs | Projector in class, Computers for student use in class, Computers for student use outside of class, Lab equipment for student use - professional, Tables arranged for group work |
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Skills |
Designed for:
Problem-solving skills, Conceptual understanding of physics content, Connecting conceptual and mathematical understanding, Think like a scientist, Reflecting on one's own learning, Laboratory skills, Representing knowledge in multiple ways, Designing experiments, Creativity
Can be adapted for: Coherent framework for physics, Understanding how physics relates to the real world, Self-confidence around physics, Enjoyment of physics, Autonomy |
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Research Validation |
Based on research into:
how students learn,
student ideas about specific topics Demonstrated to improve: scores on multiple choice conceptual tests ,
scores on written conceptual tests,
laboratory skillsStudied using: conceptual pre/post exams ,
problem-solving pre/post exams,
classroom observations,
video of students |
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Compatible Methods | JiTT, Physlets, SCALE-UP, Modeling, OSP, ISLE, CPU |
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Similar Methods | ISLE |
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Developer(s) | Eugenia Etkina, Suzanne Brahmia, Chis D'Amato, James Finley, Jim Flakker, Danielle Bugge, Richard Therkorn |
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Website | http://pum.rutgers.edu |
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Intro Article | Searching for Evidence of Student Understanding |
