Physics, often labeled the "fundamental science," lies at the heart of our understanding of the universe. From explaining why apples fall from trees to the functioning of GPS satellites, physics governs the laws that structure our reality. Despite its importance and ubiquity, many students consistently struggle to perform well in physics courses at the high school and university levels. This struggle stems from a complex interplay of cognitive, emotional, educational, and systemic factors.

This article explores the many reasons why students underperform in physics, analyzing key contributing elements such as mathematical dependency, abstract concepts, teaching methodologies, psychological factors, and curricular design. We also explore what can be done to mitigate these issues.

1. The Mathematical Barrier

One of the most frequently cited reasons students find physics difficult is its heavy reliance on mathematics. Unlike some other sciences that rely more on memorization or qualitative reasoning, physics often demands a high level of mathematical proficiency. Topics such as kinematics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics require the use of algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and differential equations.

Many students who struggle in physics are not necessarily weak in conceptual understanding but are hampered by poor math skills. A student might grasp the physical idea of acceleration but falter when asked to apply kinematic equations to solve problems. Mathematics becomes a gatekeeper: without fluency in manipulating equations, even basic physics becomes inaccessible.

Further complicating matters is the fact that students often take introductory physics at the same time as - or even before - they learn the required mathematics, creating a disconnect. Without a solid math foundation, students may perceive physics problems as indecipherable codes, increasing frustration and reducing motivation.

2. Abstract and Counterintuitive Concepts

Physics frequently deals with phenomena that are abstract or invisible to the naked eye. While some introductory topics like Newtonian mechanics can be tied to everyday experiences, more advanced areas - such as electricity and magnetism, wave-particle duality, or general relativity - require students to conceptualize interactions that are far removed from their direct sensory experience.

These challenges are magnified when physics is taught in a way that emphasizes symbolic manipulation over intuitive understanding. Without concrete analogies, visual aids, or hands-on demonstrations, students often find it difficult to build a mental model of how the world works according to physical laws.

3. Rote Learning vs Conceptual Understanding

A major pedagogical challenge in physics education is the temptation to rely on rote learning instead of fostering deep conceptual understanding. Many students approach physics the way they do other subjects: by memorizing formulas and plugging numbers into equations. However, physics is fundamentally about understanding relationships, applying principles to novel situations, and deriving solutions logically.

When students focus solely on memorization, they become easily stumped by problems that differ even slightly from textbook examples. Conceptual learning requires more effort and active engagement than memorization.

4. Teaching Approaches and Curriculum Design

Another significant factor is the way physics is taught. Many physics instructors, particularly at the university level, are subject-matter experts but not necessarily trained educators. They may be brilliant researchers but lack the pedagogical skills to convey complex ideas in accessible ways.

The curriculum itself can also be a barrier. In many systems, physics is introduced abruptly and intensively, with little preparatory groundwork. Moreover, physics is often presented in a decontextualized manner, making it harder for students to see its relevance to real life.

5. Lack of Motivation and Relevance

Many students fail to see the relevance of physics to their lives or career goals. Without clear real-world applications, students may perceive physics as an abstract puzzle that only a few elite minds can solve. This perception is often reinforced by media portrayals of physicists as eccentric geniuses, further alienating students.

Educators can combat this by contextualizing physics in meaningful ways - highlighting its applications in technology, medicine, sports, and everyday phenomena.

6. Psychological and Emotional Barriers

Psychological factors such as anxiety, fear of failure, and fixed mindset significantly contribute to students' poor performance in physics. Because physics is perceived as difficult, students often approach it with apprehension. This mindset can trigger test anxiety, which further impairs cognitive function and performance under pressure.

Another common phenomenon is the "impostor syndrome," particularly among students from underrepresented groups in STEM. Feeling like they don't belong in the physics classroom, these students may disengage or fail to seek help even when they struggle.

7. Assessment Methods That Discourage Learning

Many physics courses rely heavily on high-stakes assessments such as timed exams, problem sets, and lab reports. While these tools are important, they often emphasize accuracy over process, and correctness over curiosity. Students are penalized for making mistakes rather than encouraged to learn from them.

Assessment redesign - incorporating project-based learning, peer instruction, conceptual quizzes, and reflective writing - can help students engage with physics more meaningfully and reduce the fear associated with failure.

8. Insufficient Support Structures

Another key issue is the lack of adequate support systems. Students who struggle in physics often have nowhere to turn for help. Office hours may be intimidating or inaccessible, and teaching assistants may not be trained to support diverse learning needs.

To improve outcomes, institutions need to invest in academic support centers, mentoring programs, and inclusive classroom practices that recognize and respond to student diversity.

9. Cultural and Societal Influences

Broader cultural factors also play a role. In some societies, physics is viewed as a subject reserved for the intellectually elite, particularly males. This stereotype can discourage women and minority students from pursuing or excelling in physics.

Combating these societal influences requires systemic change - diverse role models in media and education, inclusive curricula, and active efforts to deconstruct harmful stereotypes.

10. Solutions and Recommendations

• Strengthen Math Foundations: Ensure that students have the necessary math skills before or alongside physics instruction.
• Use Active Learning: Employ teaching methods that involve students in the learning process - peer discussions, hands-on labs, simulations, and real-world problems.
• Promote Conceptual Understanding: Focus less on formula memorization and more on intuitive explanations, analogies, and reasoning.
• Provide Scaffolding and Support: Offer academic support through tutoring, office hours, online resources, and accessible help-seeking environments.
• Redesign Assessments: Use assessments that value process, reasoning, and creativity - not just speed and accuracy.
• Humanize the Subject: Connect physics to everyday life, diverse careers, and societal impact.
• Foster Growth Mindset: Encourage students to view intelligence and ability as malleable. Normalize struggle as part of the learning process.

Conclusion

Physics is a beautiful and powerful subject, but many students find it daunting due to a combination of cognitive, emotional, pedagogical, and cultural barriers. The reasons for underperformance in physics are complex and interconnected, but with thoughtful reform, inclusive practices, and better support, we can make physics accessible to more students.

Empowering students to understand and appreciate physics is not just a matter of academic success - it's an investment in future scientists, engineers, and informed citizens capable of navigating and shaping an increasingly technological world.

You can learn these concepts and more at Dr Hock's maths and physics tuition.