Kicking Out the Crutch: The Impact of Formula Sheets on Student Performance and Learning

This paper reports the results of a study of the impact of examination reference materials on student performance and retention. To evaluate performance, within-term and final examination mean scores are compared from two populations of students in a statics and mechanics of materials introductory-level engineering course. One population (n=184) was provided reference material for use on examinations. The second population (n=201) was not permitted to use any reference material on examinations. Retention was evaluated using a test-retest assessment by comparing final examination mean scores and a concept inventory survey. Finally, student preparation time is compared using time survey data. No definitive conclusions can be made about the impact the reference cards had on performance or retention. However, student preparation time and overall performance was not negatively impacted in the population without reference materials. The motivation behind this study and the theory behind using reference materials are also discussed.