Students' difficulties regarding vector representations in free-body system

Abstract

Research has been conducted relating to the use of representation in physics learning. The aim of the research is to identify the difficulties of students in using vector diagrams in solving the problems of various free body systems, then to determine the effect of the students' prior knowledge on the implementation of representation in physics learning. The study was conducted on two groups of students, who only learned Introductory Physics and students who had studied Introductory Physics and Mechanics. The findings of the study is almost no difference between groups of students who only have Introductory Physics and groups of students who have learned the knowledge of Introductory Physics and Mechanics. More than 75% of students cannot correctly draws vector diagrams of weight and weight projections in inclined plane, normal force, friction forces and tension. The implication of the research is the need to organize the physics education curriculum for freshman students at the university which gives sufficient prior knowledge on Vector Analysis, especially students in physics departement and engineering departement.