A Research-Based Approach to Assessing Student Learning Issues in Upper-Division Electricity & Magnetism

Abstract

As part of our efforts to systematically improve our junior-level Electricity & Magnetism I (Electro-and MagnetoStatics) course, we have developed a conceptual instrument, the CUE (Colorado Upper-division Electrostatics) diagnostic. Two central goals of this tool are: to assess impacts of transformed curricula, and to systematically identify and document student learning difficulties. We find persistent issues involving students' ability to conceptually approach and visualize E&M, to accurately communicate that understanding, and to appropriately identify and apply upper-level problem-solving strategies. Our work underlines the need for further research on the nature of student learning -and appropriate instructional interventions -at the upper division