Visualization enhances problem solving in multiqubit systems

Abstract

Quantum information science (QIS) is a vast, diverse, and abstract field. In consequence, learners face many challenges. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education research has found that visualizations are valuable for aiding learners in complex matters. The conditions under which visualizations pose benefits are largely unexplored in QIS education. In this eye-tracking study, we examine the conditions under which the visualization of multiqubit systems with the dimensional circle notation (DCN) in addition to the mathematical symbolic Dirac notation (DN) is associated with a benefit for solving problems on the ubiquitously used hadamard gate operation, in terms of performance, extraneous cognitive load (ECL) and intrinsic cognitive load (ICL). We find that DCN increases performance and reduces cognitive load for participants with little experience in quantum physics. In addition, representational competence predicts reductions in ECL with DCN, but not performance or ICL. Analysis of the eye-tracking results indicates that task solvers with more transitions between DN and DCN benefit less from the visualization. We discuss the generalizability of the results and practical implications.