Modeling Instruction in AP Physics C — Chapter Three

Action Research Methodology

Modeling Instruction is a pedagogy that places models at the center of science learning. Constructivist learning principles and the Modeling Theory of Cognition form the philosophical foundation of Modeling Instruction and students use the Modeling Cycle to develop conceptual models. Many studies with high school students have indicated that Modeling Instruction allows students to understand science more thoroughly than other curricular or instructional strategies. However, there are few studies using Modeling Instruction with university physics and no studies discussing the incorporation of Modeling Instruction with AP Physics C: Mechanics and Electricity and Magnetism. The problem of practice for this study was to determine the viability of Modeling Instruction as a pedagogy for students in AP Physics C: Mechanics and Electricity and Magnetism. The proposed solution to the problem of practice was to incorporate Modeling Instruction theory and practice in my courses during the 2016–2017 school year. Because the viability of Modeling Instruction in AP Physics C: Mechanics and Electricity and Magnetism is unknown, the research question for this study is the following: Is Modeling Instruction a viable pedagogy in AP Physics C: Mechanics and Electricity and Magnetism?

Action Research Design

This study utilizes a quantitative action research design because I was interested in understanding the magnitude of the…