The effects of introductory station labs in high school physics

Abstract

The physics related experiences that students have are important for reflection when problem solving, building conceptual understanding and enriching their overall world view. This project used Introductory Station Labs to engage students in a variety of short collaborative investigations prior to the beginning of formal instruction for several units with three high school physics classes. The findings indicate that Introductory Station Labs are helpful by allowing students to make real-world connections, by providing sources of reflection while problem solving later in a unit and by enriching their experience with the world. A positive shift in student interest levels was noted. This study highlights the need to place more emphasis on reflection so that students can better develop the connections required to see the beauty of physics in the world around them.