Elmira Kozhabekova
Elmira Kozhabekova, The Department of Physics (Bexultan Orazov, Gulnara Issayeva, Samat Maxutov, Elmira Kozhabekova, Nuri Balta)
Research name: Exploring university students’ misconceptions of the kinetic molecular theory of gases: A study from Kazakhstan
Benefits of research: Analyzing Misconceptions in Molecular Physics Education
Brief description of the study: This research examines the conceptual knowledge and misunderstandings among university students of the Kinetic Molecular Theory of Gases (KMTG) in Kazakhstan. The results show substantial misunderstandings in terms of molecular motion in thermodynamic systems, gas pressure, entropy, and change in temperature. For instance, 81.2% of students showed misconceptions about entropy, and 80.3% showed misunderstandings about temperature behavior in adiabatic processes. Significant statistical differences in performance were found according to university and grade.
The report underscores the prevalence of misconceptions in thermodynamic and molecular physics, and the necessity for local and interactive instructional methods. These results are part of an increasing literature in physics education in Central Asia and present suggestions for curriculum design and instructor training in the area.Link to research article: https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/15957
Link to the scientist's profile on the university website: https://profiles.stanford.edu/stanleyqi