Indicates a research-demonstrated benefit

Thinking Problems

Overview

A collection of homework problems, clicker questions, and exam questions, created for teachers and education researchers by the University of Maryland's Physics Education Research Group.  Includes estimation problems, ranking tasks, and problems designed to help students connect mathematical and conceptual reasoning and relate physics to the real world.

	Type of Method	Curriculum supplement
	Level	Designed for: Intro College Calculus-based, Intro College Algebra-based, Intro College Conceptual Can be adapted for: Teacher Preparation, Teacher Professional Development, High School, Intermediate Undergraduate
	Setting	Designed for: Lecture - Large (30+ students), Lecture - Small (<30 students), Recitation/Discussion Session, Homework, Studio Can be adapted for: Lab
	Coverage	Few topics with great depth, Many topics with less depth
	Topics	Mechanics, Electricity / Magnetism, Waves / Optics, Thermal / Statistical, Modern / Quantum
	Skills	Designed for: Problem-solving skills, Conceptual understanding of physics content, Connecting conceptual and mathematical understanding, Coherent framework for physics, Understanding how physics relates to the real world, Think like a scientist Can be adapted for: Reflecting on one's own learning, Self-confidence around physics, Enjoyment of physics
	Research Validation	Based on research into: how students learn, student ideas about specific topics
	Compatible Methods	Peer Instruction, PhET, UW Tutorials, JiTT, Ranking Tasks, ILDs, CGPS, Physlets, Context-Rich Problems, TIPERs, ABP Tutorials, SCALE-UP, OSP, SDI Labs, OST Tutorials, Workbook for Introductory Physics, LA Program, CAE TPS, MBL, New Model Course, CPU, SCL, TEFA, CU Modern, IQP, M&I, Tutorials, Clickers, Responsive Teaching
	Similar Methods	Ranking Tasks, TIPERs
	Developer(s)	E. F. Redish and the University of Maryland Physics Education Research Group
	Website	http://www.physics.umd.edu/perg/problems.htm