Department of Physics


Department of Physics Apple - Gravity

Phone (701) 231-8974, fax (701) 231-7088


Seminar Abstract

March 12, 2008

"Research as a Guide for Developing an Inquiry-Based Curriculum on Mechanical Waves"

Dr. Mila Kryjevskaia
University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Department of Physics


The Physics Education Group at the University of Washington has been developing research-based instructional materials for use in introductory physics courses as well as in courses for K-12 teachers. There is evidence that, after standard instruction in a typical introductory course, students are not able to apply fundamental physics concepts to contexts not explicitly covered in class. (For example, after relevant lecture instruction on mechanical waves, only 10% of students are able to apply the principle of superposition correctly in the case of two asymmetric pulses traveling toward each other on a spring.) In order to help students achieve a functional understanding of physics concepts and develop scientific reasoning skills, the curriculum Tutorials in Introductory Physics is intended to supplement standard instruction. In addition, research and teaching experience have guided the development of Physics by Inquiry, a curriculum for use in special courses for K-12 teachers. These courses model the inquiry-based, hands-on approach to learning that teachers are increasingly expected to use in their own classrooms. Specific examples will illustrate how this approach can help develop both the subject-matter background needed to teach science effectively and an awareness of common student difficulties.