Examining Effects of Worksheets to Associate Thermodynamics Concepts with Related Daily Events

Authors : Güner Tural, Özge Kol

Pages : 51-60

Doi:10.17275/per.16.spi.2.6

View : 20 | Download : 12

Publication Date : 2016-02-01

Article Type : Research

Abstract :The objective of this study is to examine the effect of worksheets as a tool used for teacher candidates to associate thermodynamics concepts with related daily events in an active learning environment. A questionnaire that consists of eight open-ended questions was developed by the researchers.  The content of these questions was relationship of zeroth and first laws of thermodynamics and expansion concept with daily events. This measurement tool was applied to fifteen fourth year physics teacher candidates in the Black Sea Region of Turkey during the 2014-2015 academic years before and after the application. Answers of the physics teacher candidates to questionnaire were analyzed via understanding level criterions as sound understanding, partial understanding , misunderstanding and no understanding . Three worksheets contain hands-on activities were applied in four-hour lesson. After completion of questionnaire the interview was implemented about teacher candidates’opinions related to application. The results of questionnaire showed that after application there was an increase for sound and partial understanding. After application of worksheets, teacher candidates were able to use zeroth and first laws of thermodynamics and expansion concept in daily events more easily. It was concluded that worksheets enhanced teacher candidates’ understanding relationship of zeroth and first laws of thermodynamics and expansion concept with daily events. Also they provided active learning environment to teacher candidates
Keywords : thermodynamics, worksheets, daily events, physics teacher candidates