Physics Education Research on Inexpensive Active-Learning Lab Modules

Varney, Megan Elise; Rywalt, Corinne Elizabeth; Mutton, Zoe Marie Josephine

Student Work

Physics Education Research on Inexpensive Active-Learning Lab Modules

Public

Active learning strategies, including hands-on activities and lab work, have proved to be beneficial to student comprehension and success in physics classrooms. Only 47% of high school physics classes are taught by a teacher with a degree in physics. This project aims to design three modular, inexpensive, and demonstrative lab modules in introductory mechanics that are easy to implement and should enhance student knowledge in friction, conservation of energy, and torque, because students show weakness in these areas. Other WPI physics students tested the lab kits, and then feedback on their efficacy was used to enhance the lab modules. In the future, another project will carry out these labs in a high school and suggest these lab modules to low-income schools.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

Subject