written by Ryan L. C. Hazelton, MacKenzie R. Stetzer, Paula R. L. Heron, and Peter S. Shaffer

In teaching electrostatics and electric circuits, it is necessary to introduce abstract ideas such as electric fields and electric potential before discussions of circuits can take place. The Physics Education Group at the University of Washington has found that students in introductory courses can build a functional understanding of some aspects of electric fields and potential, but their understanding of these concepts appears to falter when applied to systems involving conductors. Some specific examples will be discussed. The results will be used to inform the further development of tutorials in electrostatics.

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Published January 24, 2013
Last Modified June 26, 2013