Work in Progress: A Quantitative Study of the Effectiveness of PowerPoint in the Classroom

At New Mexico State University (NMSU), a quantitative study has begun of the effectiveness of PowerPoint for learning in introductory physics. The study is expected to run for a total of five years and the final results will include data for more than 1000 engineering and computer science students completing the mechanics and electricity and magnetism portions of beginning physics. Tests will include a study of the change in standardized test scores (e.g. force concept inventory), as well as performance on targeted problems in specific areas of physics. The study will focus on four areas of pedagogy and how they are enhanced by the use of PowerPoint: the use of dynamic content, external learning, cognitive enhancement and integration of static, dynamic and demonstrative teaching. Preliminary results showing an increase in FCI scores are shown here for one semester with 100 students participating