written by Stephanie Viola Chasteen and Steven J. Pollock

As part of our efforts to systematically improve our junior-level Electricity & Magnetism I (Electro- and Magneto-Statics) course, we have developed a conceptual instrument, the CUE (Colorado Upper-division Electrostatics) diagnostic. Two central goals of this tool are: to assess impacts of transformed curricula, and to systematically identify and document student learning difficulties. We find persistent issues involving students' ability to conceptually approach and visualize E&M, to accurately communicate that understanding, and to appropriately identify and apply upper-level problem-solving strategies. Our work underlines the need for further research on the nature of student learning--and appropriate instructional interventions -at the upper division.

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Published November 11, 2009
Last Modified March 11, 2010