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Some Student Conceptions of Electromagnetic Induction

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Abstract

Introductory electromagnetism is a central part of undergraduate physics. Although there has been some research into student conceptions of electromagnetism, studies have been sparse and separated. This study sought to explore second year physics students’ conceptions of electromagnetism, to investigate to what extent the results from the present study are similar to these results from other studies, and to uncover any new forms of alternative conceptions. Data for this study came from 15 in-depth interviews. Three previously unreported alternative conceptions were identified in the study: 1) induced current varies proportionately with current in solenoid; 2) there must be contact between magnetic flux and the external coil in order for any emf to be induced in the coil; 3) coulombic or electrostatic potential difference is present in an induced electric field. These alternative conceptions were manifested in these students’ explanations of electromagnetic phenomena presented to them during the interviews.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Education, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia

    Wai Meng Thong & Richard Gunstone

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  1. Wai Meng Thong
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  2. Richard Gunstone
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Correspondence to Wai Meng Thong.

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Thong, W.M., Gunstone, R. Some Student Conceptions of Electromagnetic Induction. Res Sci Educ 38, 31–44 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11165-007-9038-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11165-007-9038-9

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