Engineering problem solving in physics class. Categorizing the resolution procedure model

Abstract

This work is part of a wider research with the purpose of identifying categories that represent the resolution procedure models of undefined engineering problems, which are implemented by engineering students, within the context of physics class. A thorough analysis was done over the results the resolutions obtained during group work done by students of Physics I at Engineering Faculty from Unicen while solving a problem that involved the scaling of the tower-crane which could have been used in a definite and real work (raising the replica of the moving stone of Tandil city). The analysis consisted on the identification of the strategies implemented in the different stages which are, according to the reference theoretical framework, involved in the resolution of problems. The data obtained allowed to envisage different levels of development of the solving problems competence, being able to categorize the majority in an “intermediate” level characterized by the lack of strategies related to the analysis and criteria’s selection of data and the absence of self-assessment of both the implemented procedures and the results obtained. The findings indicate which aspects should teaching strengthen to optimize the development of the intended competencies.