Teaching mechanics

Abstract

In this Chapter issues associated with teaching mechanics in its broadest sense are discussed. A historical approach is adopted throughout in the belief that this is important for novice students to help them comprehend the conceptual difficulties inherent in this subject. It also highlights the historical problems which its creators faced and the teaching methods used at the time. The Chapter describes a conceptual teaching approach, enhanced through technology, which was initially developed for physics education in large classes, although the pedagogy is based on Socratic Dialogue. For reasons which will become clear the focus is on introductory courses: it is considered crucial that novice students are provided with an opportunity to experience a different way of thinking about mechanics. An emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding before mathematical technique.