Upper-Level Physics Students' Perceptions of Physicists

Paul W. Irving; Eleanor C. Sayre

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arXiv · 1409.1197

Upper-Level Physics Students' Perceptions of Physicists

Paul W. Irving·Eleanor C. Sayre

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Abstract

As part of a longitudinal study into identity development in upper-level physics students, we used a phenomenographic research method to examine students' perceptions of what it means to be a physicist. The results revealed four different categories. We find a clear distinction in the exclusivity students associate with being a physicist and the differences in the importance of research and its association with being a physicist. A relationship between perceptions of physicists and goal orientation is indicated.

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Paul W. Irving, Eleanor C. Sayre. 2014-09-03. Upper-Level Physics Students' Perceptions of Physicists. https://arxiv.org/abs/1409.1197

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