The Value of Solving Experimental Problems in Groups

Abstract

At the University of Hull, we have run open-ended laboratory classes using groups of four students for a number of years in order to develop a range of skills around the design and execution of a practical investigation. When this form of experimental problem solving was first implemented, the groups performed two separate experiments lasting 4 weeks each in which they were challenged to measure some quantity using only very basic equipment. Some of these experiments have already been described at a previous GIREP meeting. In recent years the experiment has developed from two separate experiments into a single experiment conducted in two stages. For historical reasons, the practical use of operational amplifiers was incorporated into the experiments and the students were set a task to build a circuit to amplify the signal from a type K thermocouple and then use the thermocouple to measure the heat capacity of an aluminium alloy of unknown composition. This experiment has been running now for several years and has proven highly effective in challenging students to think and use their knowledge. No instructions are given: the students have to design and execute their own experiment and record everything in a Wiki which is assessed at the end of the experiment.