What could be done at the middle/high school level to better prepare students to be successful in college and careers Prof. Izabela Stroe, Physics, Lecturer in Electricity and Magnetism

Faculty input Rigorous mathematical basics Trigonometry Algebra Calculus Word problems More advanced skills – Visualization – Problem-solving strategies – Generalization from one problem to another – Integration of knowledge across fields – Make and communicate assumptions – Think graphically – Think symbolically Further assets: – Good time management – Willingness to seek help – Self-Studing

Students input A survey was conducted in the WPI PH1121- Electricity and Magnetism with Calculus. The input comes from about 150 students. The majority of students had already taken the WPI PH1111-Mechanics prior to this course. The results of the survey are presented in the next 2 slides.

Q1: Please share the gaps in knowledge/skills that you struggle with in the introductory courses in college Thinking outside the box Self-studying Time management Math and physics are presented disconnected Very basic background in physics or none Vectors Trig identities Integration by parts/solutions of system of equations Methods of solving problems Integration of calculus with physics Get used to look for help and understanding it is ok Take theoretical concepts and apply them in problems Working in groups/writing in groups Work load Research skills Solid physics/math understanding Understanding how all fits together The pace of the learning-7weeks term Dot, cross product Exposed in high school only to mechanics Lab reports Study skills Doing homework for long time Exams instead many tests and quizzes Life skills/how to live on your own AP classes two easy compared to college introductory courses

Q2: Please share your thoughts about the desired STEM experiences that students should get at the K-12 school system to better prepare them to be successful in college/career. Project based curriculum Teaching a subject as oppose to AP test More STEM classes-more robotics, programing design, computer programs, engineering Learn how to solve problems using analytical expressions rather then plugging in numbers Applying formulas to real situations Interdisciplinary courses where subjects are connected to each other, such as Biology with Physics, Physics with Chemistry. More hands on (lab) experience Introduce Calculus as soon as possible, 4 years of required Math, rigorous math Physics should be required like Chemistry and Biology Introduce specific STEM classes in middle school Integrate STEM with Art Education (stimulate creativity) Teach how to think critical More room for specialization in high school More in-depth practice and theory in the pre-requisite courses STEM classes should be presented at a moderate level such that students will not be intimidated to take them Experience with FIRST, C-STEM, Academic Decathlon Introduce reading textbooks to build self-discipline Courses in middle/high school should be more challenging Please note that the underlined feedback showed up as a theme in many responses

Summary -STEM courses and problem solving experiences - Computer programs and programming experiences - Introduction to engineering - Strong math and calculus at HS - AP courses or more difficult courses - Robotics and any other STEM extra curricular activities -Introduction of Physics earlier in school