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Re: [Phys-l] innumeracy



While this is a nice demonstration of why units and being careful is
important, it really does not change the way students think.

Part of the problem of innumeracy is that many students do not have a need
for accuracy and precision. This is one of the executive functions that
Reuven Feuerstein has identified as being important to improved functioning
(improved intelligence). This requires a concerted attack where the student
is forced into a situation which requires improved accuracy and precision.
Generally this is not provided by a situation where they are graded, because
that is easily dismissed as being the instructor's problem and not the
student's. Feuerstein designed various "puzzles" or exercizes which can
only be solved by students when they improve their executive functioning.
Then these are solved by the students along with the instructor over a
period of time.

For more information about executive functions I would refer to the NPR
broadcast
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=76838288
Also any of the books by Reuven Feuerstein.

These sorts of things require the right stimulus and time for the student to
rewire their brains.

John M. Clement
Houston, TX



There is a big difference between a pound of gold and a pound of feathers.

Gold is measured in Troy ounces and pounds
Feathers are measured in Avoirdupois ounces and pounds.

These units are different! they will not weigh the same! This is my
introduction to my students why it is important to understand units.