div and curl in electromagnetic field theory - Huang, Wang, Chen, Zhang, 2013

[torquetum]

 Huang, H., Wang, J., Chen, C. & Zhang, X. (2013). Teaching divergence and curl in an Electromagnetic Field course. International Journal of Electrical Engineering Education, 50(4), 351-357.

 

The authors teach an electromagnetic field course and recognise that physical interpretation of divergence and curl are a difficulty for students, even though the actual calculations are not. They suggest a teaching method which begins with capturing the students’ interest through fictional and theoretical invisibility cloaks. The maths behind the theory involves Maxwell’s equations and hence divergence and curl. The authors suggest ways of teaching divergence and curl through flux and circulation, beginning with the macro and moving to the micro in logical ways.

 

Do not treat this blog entry as a replacement for reading the paper. This blog post represents the understanding and opinions of Torquetum only and could contain errors, misunderstandings or subjective views.