Student descriptions of refraction and optical fibers

Fran Mateycik, D. J. Wagner, J. J. Rivera, Sybillyn Jennings

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper reports our research into how students describe and think about optical fibers and the physical phenomena of refraction and total internal reflection (TIR) basic to their operation. The study was conducted as part of the improvement and expansion of web-based materials for an innovative Rensselaer introductory physics course that examines the physics underlying information technology. As we developed the prototype module, we examined students' understanding of the phenomena of refraction, TIR, and optical fibers through the use of clinical interviews. As students discussed refraction and tried to explain how optical fibers work, several patterns emerged. Our analysis of these patterns drives our assessment of the effectiveness of the revised materials in facilitating students' transfer of learning, as well as the development of a multiple-choice diagnostic tool.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication2004 PHYSICS EDUCATION RESEARCH CONFERENCE
Pages169-172
Number of pages4
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 16 2005
Event2004 PHYSICS EDUCATION RESEARCH CONFERENCE - Sacramento, CA, United States
Duration: Aug 4 2004Aug 5 2004

Publication series

NameAIP Conference Proceedings
Volume790
ISSN (Print)0094-243X
ISSN (Electronic)1551-7616

Other

Other2004 PHYSICS EDUCATION RESEARCH CONFERENCE
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySacramento, CA
Period8/4/048/5/04

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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