Combining two reform curricula: An example from a course with well-prepared students

Many studies have separately documented the benefits of research-based curricula and pedagogical methods. Here, we report on the effects of adopting a reform curriculum (Matter and Interactions) in conjunction with a pedagogical tool designed and validated in the context of a traditional treatment of mechanics (Tutorials in Introductory Physics). We document the need for targeted interactive engagement materials (such as the tutorials) even in a course with a population of students who are extremely well-prepared in physics. We describe the modifications necessary to successfully incorporate Tutorials in Introductory Physics into a course using Matter and Interactions, and we present data documenting the success of this approach.