Factors and mechanisms of mastering physical knowledge by technical university students

Abstract

Introduction. Physics is one of the general professional disciplines at a technical university; its mastering is extremely important for future engineers. The process of formation of physical knowledge is accompanied by multiple difficulties, which actualises the problem of identifying the factors of assimilation thereof in students of a technical university as well as the mechanisms to influence these factors. The aim of the study is to identify and justify the factors of physical knowledge assimilation in students of a technical university as well as the mechanisms of influencing these factors. Materials and methods. The study involved 95 students of the National research university “MPEI” (Moscow Power Engineering Institute) (Russian Federation) majoring in the profiles: “Electric Power Engineering”, “Electrical Engineering”, “Biotechnical Systems”, “Electronics”. In order to assess the level of formation of students’ physical knowledge, a test comprising 15 questions was offered to them with a view to evaluate the students’ knowledge of the basic concepts and laws in the sections: “Mechanics”, “Molecular Physics” and “Electrodynamics”. The statistical analysis of test results was carried out by means of Mann-Whitney U test. Results. A number of factors influencing the formation of physical knowledge in students have been formulated, that were found to be in line with the objectives of studying physics at a technical university. The correctness of the revealed factors is confirmed by the statistics (Uemp. = 12 < Ucr. = 16; p < 0,01), i.e. the students who had poor performance at school or who failed the Unified State Examination are not motivated for studying physics at a university and have poor academic results in general physics. The success in test performance shown by students from weak Bachelor degree groups does not differ from the results of the same test performed by Master degree students (Uemp. = 47.5 > Ucr. = 16). This result is explained by the influence of such factor as low relevance of physical knowledge for Master degree students at a given stage of study. A set of mechanisms directly aimed at students’ assimilation of basic physical concepts and laws was developed. They include: development of cognitive abilities due to the systemic nature of physical knowledge, students’ strengthened intrinsic motivation to study physics, discussion of mathematical and verbal formulation of physical concepts and laws, regular directed testing in physics at all stages of studying at the university. Conclusion. The practical significance of the study is determined by the possibility to use its results for improving the process of formation of physical knowledge in students of technical universities.