Using Computer-assisted Personalized Assignment System in a Large-Enrollment General Physics

Tolga Gok

Tolga Gok Colorado School of Mines

Abstract

The on-line tutoring system, LON-CAPA, was implemented in Introductory Calculus-Based Physics-II course at Colorado School of Mines in fall 2008 and spring 2009. In this paper, the features and the case study of the LON-CAPA implementation were described. The performance data obtained from the scores of students enrolled in the course represented students’ lower performances on written assignments and exams relative to LON-CAPA problems. The outcome could be students’ insufficient problem solving abilities which arises because of poor knowledge of fundamental concepts. To overcome this drawback, an alternate technique to the LON-CAPA questioning method was designed. The technique is intended to increase the students’ problem solving skills with a better conceptual understanding by using three integrated problem solving strategies which was incorporated with LON-CAPA type problem. If developed problem solving strategy steps can be introduced into the LON-CAPA problem, it is expected that students also will become experienced problem solvers.

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