written by Jeffrey M. Hawkins, John R. Thompson, and Michael C. Wittmann

In a series of ten two-dimensional graphical vector addition questions with varying visual representations, most students stuck to a single solution method, be it correct or incorrect. Changes to the visual representation include placing vectors on a grid, making the vectors arrangements symmetric, varying the separation between vectors, and reversing the direction of either vector. We discuss the questions asked of students and their responses, emphasizing the results of one student who did change solution methods during an interview.

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Published November 11, 2009
Last Modified October 6, 2009

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