Investigating the correlation between mathematical pre-knowledge and learning gains in service physics
Eur. J. Phys. 28 1073-1080
J M Buick
Physics and Electronics, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
E-mail: jbuick at une dot edu dot au
Abstract.
An investigation was undertaken into the relationship between the initial mathematics knowledge of students and their success in a service physics course aimed at science students who require an understanding of basic physics concepts but who are not studying for a physics major. An appropriate method for performing this investigation was developed, implemented and analysed. Results from a small, self-selected sample indicated a correlation between the initial mathematical knowledge of students and learning gains obtained during the course.
Print publication: Issue 6 (November 2007)
Received 10 July 2007
Published 7 September 2007
This paper recently went behind the EJP wall (they only allow open access in the first month of publication), but JM Buick pointed out to me that he has a page of publications listed at his web site. You can contact him for more information, if you wish.
