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Abstract Research-validated multiple-choice questions comprise an easy-to-implement instructional tool that serves to scaffold student learning and formatively assess students’ knowledge. We present findings from the implementation, in consecutive years, of a research-validated multiple-choice question sequence on measurement uncertainty as it applies to two-state quantum systems. This study was conducted in an advanced undergraduate quantum mechanics course, in online and in-person learning environments for consecutive years. Student learning was assessed after receiving traditional lecture-based instruction in relevant concepts, and their performance was compared with that of a similar assessment given after engaging with the multiple-choice question sequence. We analyze and discuss the similar and differing trends observed in the two modes of instruction.
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Challenges in addressing student difficulties with basics and change of basis for two-state quantum systems using a multiple-choice question sequence in online and in-person classes
Abstract Research-validated multiple-choice questions comprise an easy-to-implement instructional tool for scaffolding student learning and providing formative assessment of students’ knowledge. We present findings from the implementation of a research-validated multiple-choice question sequence on the basics of two-state quantum systems, including inner products, outer products, translation between Dirac notation and matrix representation in a particular basis, and change of basis. This study was conducted in an advanced undergraduate quantum mechanics course, in both online and in-person learning environments, across three years. For each cohort, students had their learning assessed after traditional lecture-based instruction in relevant concepts before engaging with the multiple-choice question sequence. Their performance was evaluated again afterward with a similar assessment and compared to their earlier performance. We analyze, compare, and discuss the trends observed in the three implementations.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2309260
- PAR ID:
- 10467998
- Publisher / Repository:
- IOP Publishing
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- European Journal of Physics
- Volume:
- 44
- Issue:
- 6
- ISSN:
- 0143-0807
- Format(s):
- Medium: X Size: Article No. 065703
- Size(s):
- Article No. 065703
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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