Learning Physics in Small-Group
Discussions – Three Examples
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Umeå University, Umeå, SWEDEN
Publication date: 2008-04-22
EURASIA J. Math., Sci Tech. Ed 2008;4(2):121-134
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ABSTRACT
This article reports on an investigation of students learning of physics during group
discussions around context-rich problems in introductory physics courses at university
level. We present the results from video recordings of student groups solving three
different problems. We found that group discussions around physics problems can lead to
stimulating and learning discussions of physics but we also observed situations when the
discussions did not work well. Misunderstandings of physics concepts reported in the
literature emerge in the discussions now and then but the students also detect new
„problems‟. In the discussions most misunderstandings and problems are treated and
solved either by the students themselves or by the students together with the teacher.
Factors that stimulate a good discussion are engaging problems and a teacher at hand to
answer questions and to discuss with the students. Factors that prevent a fruitful
discussion are too little knowledge of the actual physics among the students and bad
functioning of the groups.