Abstract:

This paper describes the possibilities of improving the students`s preparation before they become the first-year students at the Faculties of the University of Žilina. These students generally have low knowledge level of mathematics and physics before enrolling to technical universities. To increase students' chances of success in the chosen STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) study program, our first-year students have the possibility to take part in a preparatory course in order to complement their basic knowledge of physics. This course is also accompanied by Mathematics Course, too. On the basis of Force Concept Inventory test results, we assume that the students of the University of Žilina can manage to increase the gaps in their knowledge thanks to attending this course before the winter semester starts. Therefore, we consider students' participation at this Physics Course as one of the factors that contributes not only to complementing their knowledge of physics but also to improving their motivation and attitude before their first semester.

Keywords:

STEM education, FCI test, motivation.