Problem solving by developing guided research in introductory university physics courses

Abstract

Compared to traditional instruction on solving problems, this article is proposing a methodology known as «problem solving by developing guided research» which is framed within the wide range of problem solving proposals in Inquiry-Based Problem Solving. This article firstly aims to investigate how implementing a problem solving strategy based on developing guided research (Guisasola et al., 2008) can help students to improve their skills in scientific methodology procedures to solve problems. Secondly, it aims to provide evidence of improvements in problem solving within experimental groups compared to groups of students following traditional teaching and thirdly, to explore the effect of the problem solving proposal on students’ attitudes. Evidence is provided from the results of implementing this methodology among first year university engineering students.

Keywords

• problem solving
• physics university teaching
• problem based learning