Comparing Visual Qubit Representations in Quantum Education: The Bloch sphere Enhances Task Efficiency
Linda Qerimi, Sarah Malone, Eva Rexigel, Jochen Kuhn, Stefan K\"uchemann

TL;DR
This study compares Bloch sphere and Quantum Bead representations in quantum education, finding Bloch sphere improves task efficiency without affecting learning outcomes or cognitive load, and highlights the importance of representation choice on cognitive processing.
Contribution
It provides empirical evidence that the Bloch sphere enhances task efficiency in quantum learning, emphasizing the role of visual representations in cognitive processing.
Findings
Bloch sphere improves task efficiency in quantum tasks.
No significant difference in learning outcomes between representations.
Cognitive load is similar across both representations.
Abstract
Visual-graphical qubit representations offer a means to introduce abstract quantum concepts - such as quantum state, superposition, or measurement - in an accessible manner, particularly for learners with low prior knowledge. Building on a previous expert rating of mechanisms of qubit representations, this study compared two representations - Bloch sphere and Quantum Bead - in terms of learning outcomes, task performance, cognitive load, and mid-term retention. The study was conducted with N=149 school students. The study assessed conceptual understanding, application-oriented task performance by measuring accuracy per time, and cognitive load. A follow-up test after 1-2 weeks assessed mid-term retention. Results showed no significant effect of representation type on post-test learning outcomes. However, process data revealed that learners using the Bloch sphere completed…
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