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Filtering by: Creator Kamvar, Z. N. Remove constraint Creator: Kamvar, Z. N. Contributor Gire, Elizabeth Remove constraint Contributor: Gire, Elizabeth Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Remove constraint Degree Name: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

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  • Waving Arms to Teach & Learn Quantum Mechanics

    Creator:
    Hahn, Kelby T.
    Abstract:
    In this dissertation I explore the Arms representation and activities for teaching quantum mechanics invented at Oregon State University. In the Arms representation students embody quantum states. The Arms activities are presented as an exemplar of the unique physics classroom culture of the upper-division Paradigms in Physics program. In the...
    Resource Type:
    Dissertation
    Full Text:
    2.1 A student representing z = a + bi with the Arms representation superimposed to an Argand diagram

  • Students' Understanding of Discrete and Continuous Systems in Quantum Mechanics and Computation's Supporting Role

    Creator:
    Solorio, Christian D.
    Abstract:
    Quantum mechanics is increasingly being taught with a spins-first approach where instructors use simple spin systems to introduce the principles of quantum mechanics rather than systems with wavefunctions. One of the defining characteristics of a spins-first approach is that systems studied have discrete bases, whereas systems with wavefunctions have continuous...
    Resource Type:
    Dissertation
    Full Text:
    bottom plots display cn on the vertical axis and n on the horizontal axis. The plots on the left have dx

  • Sensemaking Throughout the Physics Curriculum: Understanding Expert and Student Ideas About Sensemaking in a Physics Context

    Creator:
    Lenz, MacKenzie
    Abstract:
    Physics sensemaking is a growing topic of study within the physics education community. Many lenses have been used to study sensemaking but few have considered how time and instruction can impact student sensemaking practices and ideas. In this dissertation, I present four studies that address four major questions: What sensemaking...
    Resource Type:
    Dissertation
    Full Text:
    as Yes/No. Faculty who did not address a particular topic are coded as “N/A”. . . . . . . . 33 3.2

  • Supporting Learning and Thinking with Multiple Representations in Upper Division Physics Courses

    Creator:
    Alfson, Jonathan W.
    Abstract:
    Physicists solve problems and communicate their work using many external representations, such as equations, words, diagrams, graphs, sketches, pictures, and more. To learn physics, then, students must learn to use external representations. In this dissertation, I present three manuscripts. Each manuscript discusses how upper-division Paradigms in Physics students use multiple...
    Resource Type:
    Dissertation
    Full Text:
    , and a plastic graph. The height of the surface represents the electric potential in the z = 0 plane