U.S.-Germany Workshop on Research in Physics Learning; Bremen, Germany; March 5 - 8, 1991

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This award supports ten U.S. participants in a small interna- tional meeting that will be held in Bremen, Germany in March, 1991 to discuss theoretical issues and empirical studies of students' learning processes in physics. The objective of the meeting is to orient physics education research toward the investigation of learning processes that lead to a deeper and more robust understanding of physics. The workshop has been co-organized by Professor Fred M. Goldberg of the Institute for Research in Mathematics and Science Education, San Diego State University, and Professor Hans Niedderer of the Institute of Physics Education, University of Bremen. Specific aims of the workshop are: (1) to analyze theoretical frameworks for the investigation of student learning processes in physics; (2) to propose and consider new methodologies and standards for qualitative empirical research on student learning processes in physics; (3) to discuss new teaching strategies that promote a deeper understanding of physics concepts; and (4) to suggest specific research questions which might facilitate collabora- tion among workshop participants. The primary participants are all highly qualified science education researchers who have made significant contributions to the field. In addition, several postdoctoral researchers are invited; the opportunity to interact with international leaders in the field of physics education research should provide them with a significant opportunity for professional growth. Since the late 1970's, there has been a major effort in physics education research to identify students' ideas about scientific phenomena, both prior to and following formal classroom instruction. Very few studies have focused on how students learn physics. There is no international professional organization to link researchers interested in the study of physics education. Thus, this workshop provides an opportunity for physics education researchers from the United States and Germany (and a few experts from other countries) to come together for intensive discussions to promote a new orientation in their research. Proceedings will be published by the Institute for the Teaching of the Natural Sciences, Kiel, Germany. This will be a vehicle for encouraging a continued focus on the issues raised at the workshop, and for sharing the results with a larger audience.