Physics Teaching by the Keller Plan at MIT

Abstract

The Keller plan (a self-paced, student-tutored, mastery-oriented instructional system) has spread widely in the six years of its existence, but mainly in teaching psychology. The paper reports experience with the plan in introductory physics. The results are strongly favorable; students report that they learn material more thoroughly and more efficiently. Lectures are used sparingly and mainly for motivation. Students may take as many as 20 written tests in a semester without complaint. Sophomore tutors grade the tests on the spot and have proven to be extremely valuable. The instructor's role is not to broadcast information but to manage a system and to write the necessary tests and other materials, as well as to give personal help to individuals in unusual cases.