Methods and Materials » Paradigms in Physics
Paradigms in Physics

developed by: Oregon State University Physics Department

Level
 
middle schoolhigh schoolintro collegeinter-mediateupper levelgrad school   other



Topics
Mechanics Electricity / Magnetism Waves / Optics Thermal / Statistical Modern / Quantum Mathematical
Setting
Lecture - Large (30+ students) Lecture - Small (<30 students) Recitation/Discussion Session Lab Homework Studio


What? Activities for upper-level physics including kinesthetic activities, computer simulations, integrated whiteboarding, and other small group activities. Can be incorporated into a standard course, or used as part of a restructuring of the undergraduate curriculum.

Student skills developed

Designed for:
  • Conceptual understanding
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Lab skills
  • Making real-world connections
  • Using multiple representations
Can be adapted for:
  • Metacognition

Instructor effort required

  • High

Developer's website: Paradigms

You can download activities and activity sequences from the Paradigms wiki page: http://physics.oregonstate.edu/portfolioswiki

RESEARCH VALIDATION
Bronze Validation
This is the third highest level of research validation, corresponding to:
  • at least 1 of the "based on" categories
  • at least 1 of the "demonstrated to improve" categories
  • at least 1 of the "studied using" categories
(Categories shown below)

Research Validation Summary

Based on Research Into:

  • theories of how students learn
  • student ideas about specific topics

Demonstrated to Improve:

  • conceptual understanding
  • problem-solving skills
  • lab skills
  • beliefs and attitudes
  • attendance
  • retention of students
  • success of underrepresented groups
  • performance in subsequent classes

Studied using:

  • cycle of research and redevelopment
  • student interviews
  • classroom observations
  • analysis of written work
  • research at multiple institutions
  • research by multiple groups
  • peer-reviewed publication