Using Conceptual Questions in Electromagnetics Education [Education Corner

Abstract

The topic of electromagnetics is rather difficult for students to grasp and for instructors to teach. On the other hand, its importance to technical education can hardly be overstated. This article addresses some of the challenges in the methodology and practice of electromagnetics teaching and learning in general and in particular related to the conceptual understanding of the material and associated concept-based electromagnetic problem-solving skills. It introduces, frames, and discusses some possible uses of conceptual questions. These are multiple-choice questions requiring conceptual reasoning and understanding and very little or no calculations in electromagnetics education. We discuss applications of conceptual questions to modalities of active teaching/learning, such as a flipped classroom, and different types of assessments of student learning and teaching outcomes. Conceptual questions of this scope and intent are new in electromagnetics education and likely in any electrical and computer engineering area.