Scherr, Shaffer & Vokos, Am J Phys (2002)

The challenge of changing deeply-held student beliefs about the relativity of simultaneity

R. E. Scherr, P. S. Shaffer & S. Vokos, American Journal of Physics, 70(12), p 1238-1248 (2002). (html version)

Abstract:  Previous research indicates that after standard instruction students at all academic levels often construct a conceptual framework in which the ideas of absolute simultaneity and the relativity of simultaneity co-exist. This article describes the development and assessment of instructional materials intended to improve student understanding of the concept of time in special relativity, the relativity of simultaneity, and the role of observers in inertial reference frames. Results from pretests and post-tests are presented to demonstrate the effect of the curriculum in helping students deepen their understanding of these topics. Excerpts from taped interviews and classroom interactions help illustrate the intense cognitive conflict that students encounter as they are led to confront the incompatibility of their deeply-held beliefs about simultaneity with the results of special relativity.

Scherr, Shaffer & Vokos, Am J Phys PER Suppl (2001)

Student understanding of time in special relativity: Simultaneity and reference frames

R. E. Scherr, P. S. Shaffer & S. Vokos, American Journal of Physics, Physics Education Research Supplement, 69, S24-S35 (2001). (link to journal article)

Abstract: This article reports on an investigation of student understanding of the concept of time in special relativity. A series of research tasks are discussed that illustrate, step-by-step, how student reasoning of fundamental concepts of relativity was probed. The results indicate that after standard instruction students at all academic levels have serious difficulties with the relativity of simultaneity and with the role of observers in inertial reference frames. Evidence is presented that suggests many students construct a conceptual framework in which the ideas of absolute simultaneity and the relativity of simultaneity harmoniously co-exist.