Record Details

Examining Upper-Division Thermodynamics Using the Actor Oriented Transfer Framework

ScholarsArchive at Oregon State University

Field Value
Title Examining Upper-Division
Thermodynamics Using the Actor Oriented Transfer Framework
Names Sherer, Grant J. (creator)
Manogue, Corinne (advisor)
Date Issued 2014-05-27 (iso8601)
Note Honors Bachelor of Science (HBS)
Abstract One source of di culty for students in Thermodynamics courses is their unfamiliarity with
partial derivatives and the associated mathematical procedures. At Oregon State University,
a mechanical analogue of thermodynamic systems, called the Partial Derivative Machine
(PDM), has been designed. The PDM represents an attempt to make the mathematics
of partial derivatives more accessible to students by not simultaneously introducing new
physical concepts from thermodynamics, such as Entropy. The Interlude session associated
with the upper-division thermodynamics course at Oregon State University introduces the
mathematical techniques using this new learning tool, the Partial Derivative Machine. Using
the Actor Oriented Transfer perspective this research examines the transfer of skills and
knowledge developed with the Partial Derivative Machine in this intensive mathematical
session to new physical contexts in the Energy and Entropy course and new physical contexts.
Students from the course were recorded both in class and in recorded problem solving sessions
to observe instances of transfer.
Genre Thesis
Topic Actor Oriented Transfer
Identifier http://hdl.handle.net/1957/52141

© Western Waters Digital Library - GWLA member projects - Designed by the J. Willard Marriott Library - Hosted by Oregon State University Libraries and Press