Wittmann, Steinberg & Redish, Am J Phys (1999)

Making Sense of How Students Make Sense of Mechanical Waves

M. C. Wittmann, R. N. Steinberg & E. F. Redish, The Physics Teacher, 37, p 15-21 (Jan 1999).

Abstract: In our classroom experiences as teachers, we are
often baffled when students correctly answer questions in one setting and then can’t answer seemingly identical questions in another. Obviously, their understanding of the material is not as strong as we would like. But are we asking the relevant questions when we come to this conclusion? Do the students
fundamentally not know the material? Do they know it but not recognize appropriate circumstances in which to use it? And how should our instruction
and evaluation of their knowledge depend on the answers to these questions?

We have begun to address these questions at the University of Maryland using the methods and tools of physics education research.(1) Our approach combines the study of student difficulties with physics with the design of instructional materials and environments that help students improve their understanding. This approach can lead to educational environments
that help students overcome their difficulties. (2)

We report here on our study of student understanding of the physics of mechanical waves. Understanding wave physics is important for making sense of physical optics, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetic radiation. Previous research has shown that students have fundamental difficulties with some of the basic concepts of wave physics.