Thinking, reasoning and problem solving in physics

Thinking, reasoning and problem solving in physics

Much of physics education research has been concerned with “misconceptions”, and with research-informed techniques, but not with the nature of reasoning. Dr Sands has been interested in the cognitive aspects of learning physics since 2004/5, as he sees it as the only way to provide a theoretical framework. If we know what students are doing when they learn physics, we can better direct our teaching to these ends. In this talk, he will present an account of reasoning as it applies to the practice of physics. He will explain what is involved in building models and solving problems and, on a practical note, he will give his own personal answer to the question aimed at both staff and students: "What should be the focus of our attention in order to improve knowledge, understanding and ability to solve problems?". 

Accessing this event

This event will be live, live-streamed and recorded.

• Attending the event in person:

Follow instructions in email from Dr John Loveday.

• To watch the live stream and recording, self-enrol on the 'Physics and Astronomy - Special Lectures / General Interest Seminars' Learn course - all students and staff can enrol on this course. 

To self-enrol, please follow the instructions 'Enrolling on a self-enrol course': Enrolling on a self-enrol course

In 'Search Catalogue' use 'General Interest Seminars' as Course Name and 'Go' to find the course above and enrol yourself on it.  

Once enrolled on the course, click 'Live Stream / Recording' to see the upcoming event - you will be able to click on the live stream at the start date/time. 

• Zoom link

To follow.