Working memory capacity, disembedding ability and problem solving techniques among college students in physics

Abstract

This qualitative study describes the problem solving techniques used by students of different levels of working memory capacity and disembedding ability in solving two forms of problems in Mechanics. The working memory capacity and disembedding ability of the students were assessed through the use of the Digit Backward Test (DBT) and the Find-A-Shape-Puzzle (FASP) respectively. Results of the coding of the students’ written solutions and recorded verbalized thoughts showed that students of the same as well as of different levels of working memory and disembedding ability used different techniques in solving a problem. As regards their performance, it was observed that extremes of performance in both forms of the problems occurred between field independent students with high working memory capacity and field dependent students with low working memory capacity. Students of low working memory capacity but of high disembedding ability obtained higher marks in both forms of the problem than students of high working memory capacity but of low disembedding ability. This implies that these low working memory capacity students are working at their potential because their working memory spaces are occupied only by relevant materials. Thus, disembedding ability is a significant factor in influencing performance of students.