An Examination into a Year of Physics I: Community and Motivation
Date of Award
5-2005
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
College of Education, Department of Teacher Education
First Advisor
Christopher Worthman
Second Advisor
Jeffrey Kuzmic
Third Advisor
Joseph Ekpo
Abstract
This Action Research investigation explored the issues of motivation and community within a Physics I course. I perceived two major issues in my Physics I class: a lack of a sense of community within the class and a lack of motivation to complete the work needed to learn physics.
My Action Research focused on the questions: "What motivates Physics I students?" and "How does community, or lack thereof, affect my students motivation?"
Through participant observation and student interview and through the constant comparison method of data analysis, this study discerned three themes generally negatively affecting student motivation and community: the teacher, mathematics, and homework.
This study illuminated actions necessary in a physics classroom to increase student motivation and foster the formation of a community of learners.
Recommended Citation
Koolbeck, Deborah A., "An Examination into a Year of Physics I: Community and Motivation" (2005). College of Education Theses and Dissertations. 115.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/soe_etd/115
Comments
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