Identification of Deterministic, Intermediate, and Probabilistic Thinking in Terms of Gender, Cumulative Grade Point Average, and Mathematical Ability.
Abdul Halim, Evendi, Ngadimin +2 more
Abstract The transition from classical physics to quantum physics is not merely a shift in content, but also involves a transformation in students’ conceptual understanding and modes of thinking—from deterministic to probabilistic thinking. One of the causes of misconceptions in quantum physics concepts is that students tend to retain deterministic ways of thinking. This study focuses on identifying the types of thinking adopted by 221 students during quantum physics lectures, specifically regarding the concept of wave-particle duality of light. Based on the data collected through a multiple-choice test instrument on the concept of wave-particle duality, it was found that most students demonstrated intermediate thinking, while only a small portion continued to rely on deterministic or probabilistic thinking. The implication of this study is that university lecturers are expected to design quantum physics instruction that can motivate students to shift from deterministic thinking to probabilistic thinking.
Journal of Physics Conference Series•Nov 1, 2025•0 citations