Teaching and Learning Physics

Catalog description

This course covers the fundamentals of how students learn and understand key ideas in physics and how theory can inform effective pedagogical practice. Through examination of physics content, pedagogy and problems, through teaching, and through research in physics education, students will explore the meaning and means of teaching physics. Topics include: misconceptions, resources and phenomenological primitives, theoretical foundations for active-learning, constructivism, epistemological, affective, and social-cultural issues that affect learning, guided and unguided reflection strategies, design-oriented curricula, and effective uses of educational labs and technology. Useful for all students, especially for those in interested in physics, teaching and education research.