Investigating the use of mastery-style online homework exercises in introductory algebra-based mechanics in a controlled clinical study

William R. Evans and Mats A. Selen
Phys. Rev. Phys. Educ. Res. 13, 020119 (2017) - Published 4 October 2017

Investigating the use of mastery-style online homework exercises in introductory algebra-based mechanics in a controlled clinical study
William R. Evans and Mats A. Selen

Homework in introductory physics represents an important part of a student’s learning experience; therefore, choosing the manner in which homework is presented merits investigation. We performed three rounds of clinical trials comparing the effects of mastery-style homework vs traditional-style homework with students in both algebra-based and calculus-based introductory mechanics. Results indicate a benefit from mastery-style over traditional-style homework, principally for weaker students who are less familiar with the material being covered and on questions that are nearer transfer to the study materials.

https://journals.aps.org/prper/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevPhysEducRes.13.020119