Promoting Holistic Problem Solving In Mechanics Pedagogy

The authors propose three strategies that are designed to enhance students’ understanding and problem-solving ability in introductory mechanics courses: (1) employing multiplemethod problem-solving, in which students solve a given problem using more than one method; (2) organizing systems of linear equations into a standard “tabular” format which resembles matrix format; and (3) emphasizing the discussion and use of assumptions in problem-solving activities. The authors give a rationale for each strategy, present a review of several mechanics textbooks to determine the prevalence of these strategies, and provide local student performance data that, while as yet inconclusive, suggests a possible method for assessment of the strategies’ efficacy.