Five minute physics

About this resource

Description

Modules designed to support learning across a range of undergraduate courses (first-year algebra-based physics, second-year physics of fields, student designed simulations, undergraduate physics laboratories, wavefront approach to geometric optics, Greek symbols). Each module consists of a set of pages containing teaching material in the form of text, images, videos and interactive simulations. Feedback is provided in the form of short multiple choice quizzes.

Length

Multi-week

Pedagogical backing

Rationale

Related lessons are organised into clearly structured modules. These online modules are designed for class preparation, ahead of active-learning style classes. They would be well suited to a flipped classroom approach.

These electronic learning modules were designed for students to access before attending lectures, providing students with a fundamental understanding of course material, and preparing them for in-class activities that are interactive and collaborative.

How is the resource used

The authors suggest using these modules in place of textbook readings to prepare students ahead of active-learning style classes.

Student evaluation

This resource is currently used across several physics courses (~1000 students) at the University of Queensland to prepare students for in-class activities. This approach was tested in a large first-year physics course (up to 500 students) with results published in the Teaching and Learning Inquiry Journal in 2018 ( https://doi.org/10.20343/teachlearninqu.6.1.11 ).

Authors

Tim McIntyre, The University of Queensland, t.mcintyre@uq.edu.au

Margaret Wegener, The University of Queensland, m.wegener@uq.edu.au