Homework lets students practice the problem-solving process. The focus on process, rather than final answer, is particularly important. Unfortunately, many online homework systems, and some traditional pencil-and-paper strategies, grade based on the correct answer rather than students' written thought process. This can shift student focus away from the process. We have scaled a homework structure that emphasizes the problem-solving process and metacognitive reflection. Students are required to follow a problem-solving format developed previously, which has been shown to increase student metacognition.* In our procedure, students self-grade the completeness of their homework, and instructors perform a specific spot-check to increase student accountability. The spot-check takes minimal instructor time to administer and therefore can be scaled to large courses. Additionally, this homework structure shows high student satisfaction by the end of the term.

Scalable, pencil-and-paper homework with metacognitive student outcomes and minimal instructor time

Poster Session 2A

poster

**Making Physics More Inclusive and Eliminating Exclusionary Practices in Physics**

As a gateway discipline to STEM majors and careers, physics plays a central role in deciding who does, and who doesn't, get to discover and pursue scientific careers. Technical and scientific professionals are rewarded with economic privilege and status which affords them both social and cultural power. Therefore, social justice will be realized only when the opportunity, and the choice, to excel in physics is open to all students. The culture and practices of the physics classroom reflect the culture of physics at large, which raises the question of how our professional physics communities can embrace, rather than inadvertently repel, a diverse group of academics that can help improve physics culture.  To this end, the 2021 Physics Education Research Conference will focus on defining inclusive spaces and practices. Additionally, we will explore strategies for eliminating exclusionary practices in our classrooms, research spaces, and professional organizations. We call on the community to propose sessions that will drive conversations related to these initiatives throughout PERC 2021.

Please download the full program [here. ](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TRMC_SYJ3PUqXyP7sskA7LRSA8ow0eRE/view?usp=sharing)

PERC SM 21

August 4, 2021 - August 5, 2021 in a Virtual Conference Format

Making Physics More Inclusive and Eliminating Exclusionary Practices in Physics

Jerry Liu

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SHORT BIO

Presentations

Scalable, pencil-and-paper homework with metacognitive student outcomes and minimal instructor time