Prerequisites
SUMMARY
This study deals with the effect of adding a prerequisite skill builder (a skill builder made with easier questions on the same material) in the problem set, in order to help students who are struggling. Students are randomly given a problem set that either contains a prerequisite skill builder problem or does not. A flow diagram for this set is the following:
As shown above, a post test is included in order to get a closer look at the students' skill mastery level. Expected outcomes of these study are 1) that the prerequisite questions will be helpful for the students since they are dealing with a relatively complex skill, and 2) that the outcome of adding prerequisite questions would be even more favorable for students with weaker background, (students who have been struggling in previous Assistments assignments).
Control
Students in the control receive a hard skill builder on complex number equation solving. They are required to solve 3 exercises in a row, in order to pass to the post test.
Experiment
Students in the treatment are given a short skill builder on complex equation solving. If they do not manage to solve, they are then given a short prerequisite skill builder, dealing separately with equations solving and complex number addition. Once they complete that, they are led back to the original skill builder, where they are asked to complete 3 questions in a row in order to reach the post test.
Teacher Invitation - This was sent to teachers to recruit their participation.
Click here to try the problem set
Clicking on the link above will allow you to experience this study from the student's perspective. You will be randomly assigned to either the control or experimental conditions. Follow the link multiple times or refresh the preview page to experience each condition.
Tentative Citation