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arXiv2023

Using Simulations to Highlight the Role of Electromagnetism in Special Relativity

Physics Education Research (PER) studies have demonstrated that undergraduate students struggle with fundamental principles from Electromagnetism (EM) and Special Relativity (SR). However, few studies have approached the intersection of the two subjects: the role which EM played in inspiring the development of SR. To address this issue, this paper presents two simulations which highlight the fundamental role of electromagnetism in special relativity. The first simulation demonstrates the Lorentz Transformations and the origin of the Gamma Factor from Maxwell's Equations. The second simulation offers an experiential introduction to the Biot-Savart Law, from which the Displacement Current in Ampere-Maxwell's Law can be derived. These programs may be useful in an undergraduate electromagnetism course. The simulations discussed in this paper are available at the link given in the footnote.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2023

Measuring Wigner functions of quantum states of light in the undergraduate laboratory

In this work, we present an educational activity aimed at measuring the Wigner distribution functions of quantum states of light in the undergraduate laboratory. This project was conceived by students from various courses within the physics undergraduate curriculum, and its outcomes were used in an introductory Quantum Optics course at the Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá, Colombia. The activity entails a two-hour laboratory practice in which students engage with a pre-aligned experimental setup. They subsequently employ an open-access, custom-made computational graphical user interface to reconstruct the Wigner distribution function for various quantum states of light. Given that the testing phase coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, we incorporated the capacity to analyze simulated data into the computational user interface. The activity is now part of the course syllabus and its virtual component has proven to be highly valuable for the implementation of distance learning in quantum optics.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2023

Particles in a pocket

Communicating science through mobile smartphone and tablet applications is one of the most efficient ways to reach general public of diverse background and age coverage. The Higgsy project was created in 2022 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the discovery of the Higgs boson at CERN. This project introduces a mobile game to search for the Higgs boson production in a generic particle detector. The MatterBricks is an augmented-reality project that was created for a major national event in Belgium, held in 2023. The main features of the two mobile applications and further prospects for reaching general public through mobile application development process are discussed.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2023

Evaluation of the effectiveness of an introductory mechanics Lab with Arduino and smartphone

This article describes the reform of a physics undergraduate lab course by introducing new technologies such as Arduino microcontroller and smartphone, to help students experience a more authentic lab experience. This paper outlines the structure of the lab activities and presents findings from pre- and post-course questionnaires, including the E-CLASS survey, completed by participating students. Some interesting observations about teamwork and equity emerged from these questionnaires, particularly about female students. These results will guide us in designing more effective and equitable lab courses.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

Physics PhD student perspectives on the importance and difficulty of finding a research group

Joining a research group is one of the most important events on a graduate student's path to becoming an independent physics researcher and earning a PhD. However, graduate students' perspectives on the experience of finding a research group are not well-documented in the literature. Understanding these perspectives is crucial for evaluating whether departments are providing students with adequate support while they search for a research group, and how difficulties during this process contribute to attrition. Semi-structured interviews with N=20 first and second year physics PhD students reveal that incoming graduate students see joining a research group as a significant decision, and recognize that it may impact whether they will be able to complete the program. We found that students who struggled to find a group felt isolated and worried about falling behind their peers, whereas students who were able to immerse themselves in a positive group environment reported increased sense of belonging in their programs. The process of finding a research group often held differential importance for students identifying as women and non-binary, who at times reported having to deprioritize their preferred research topic in order to be part of a more inclusive working environment. Although incoming graduate students characterized joining a research group as a significant decision, they often felt unprepared to make it. Moreover, they perceived an overall lack of guidance and structure from their departments, and characterized coursework as a barrier to searching for a group. Our findings suggest that providing students with better support during their group search process could help improve retention, particularly for traditionally underrepresented students, and improve students' overall satisfaction in their graduate programs.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2023

Isochoric cooling of air in the University Physics laboratory

In this paper an alternative way of conducting the physics laboratory exercise for determining the adiabatic index of air using the Clement -- Desormes method is proposed. The process of isochoric cooling of air has been studied in terms of the dependence of pressure on time, and hence temperature on time, since it is proportional to pressure at a constant volume and mass of air. A theoretical model of the considered process was also made. The experimental results were processed statistically. The coefficient of determination $R^2$ and the F-test statistic were calculated and their values indicate a very good agreement between theory and experiment. The analysis of the residuals, however, implies that the model could be further improved through the inclusion of higher order terms.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2023

A measurement of the Earth's radius for high school students

In the Tuscan Archipelago (Italy) it's possible to make an approximate measurement of the Earth's radius from the Elba Island using the Pianosa Island as a ship that appears and disappears on the horizon depending on the observer's height above sea level. The necessary calculations require the mathematical skills of the first two years of high school. The measurement described here refers to a particular geographical location, but it can probably be repeated in similar situations around the world.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

On the effectiveness of the early introduction of modern physics in school curriculum: the case of the structure of atom versus wave-particle duality

The dual nature of matter and radiation and the concept of the structure of an atom share a number of key conceptual elements from quantum mechanics. Despite the similarities, we find that the concept of the structure of an atom is well understood by students, in contrast to the wave-particle duality. The study analyzes students' comprehension of these two concepts by conducting a semi-structured focus group interview and questionnaire. Through students' performance in the questionnaire and their descriptive responses, we find that the difficulties in their learning and understandings reflect the treatment of the respective topic in the curriculum. The introduction of the structure of an atom is early and repeated, whereas the dual nature of matter and radiation is introduced late and abruptly. Based on our findings, we propose reforms in the present curriculum that are necessary for an improved way of introducing the concept of modern physics, like wave particle duality, to Indian students.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

Through the eyes of a reader and science communicator: science in the mainstream and in the genre literature of yesterday and today

For most writers the science is either an exotic setting or a source of thrilling conflict that would drive the story forward. For a communicator it is the other way around - the science is neatly wrapped in a package of literary tools that make it "invisible" while it remains tangible and most importantly - it can be conveyed to the reader in understandable terms. There are many examples showing how these seemingly contradicting goals can complement each other successfully. I will review how the science was communicated by mainstream and genre writers of yesterday and today, and in different (not necessarily anglophone) cultures. I will bring forward the best and the worst examples that illuminate various astronomical concepts. Finally, I will discuss how we can use them both in outreach and education. Contrary to many similar summaries I will concentrate on some often overlooked mainstream literary examples, including the plays The Physicists by Friedrich Dürrenmatt and Copenhagen by Michael Frayn, the novel White Garments by Vl. Dudintsev and even an episode of the Inspector Morse TV show, featuring scientists. I will also mention in passing a few less well known genre books.

physics.soc-ph↗

arXiv2023

A new game with Quark Matter Cards: The Eightfold path

This paper introduces an educational card game designed to elucidate fundamental particle physics concepts, specifically emphasizing the classification of hadrons through the "Eightfold Path." Derived from the Quark Matter Card Games series, the game entails arranging elementary particle cards to construct baryons and mesons on designated game boards. Detailed rules for beginner and intermediate levels are provided. The game aims to enhance understanding of particle properties, color neutrality, and symmetry principles, integral to the quark model and the Standard Model of particle physics. The paper explores the game's physical background, delving into the historical significance of the Eightfold Way and its contributions to quark theory. Adaptable for various age groups, the game serves as a dynamic and engaging tool for learning intricate physics concepts in an entertaining manner. The conclusion expresses gratitude to mentors and pioneers in the realm of card games featuring elementary particles.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2023

Survey on the Teacher-Learner Collaboration

We present a scantron-based survey which examines the teacher-learner collaboration. The survey includes questions which probe student preparedness, behaviors, attitudes, and expectations - as well as questions addressing key measures of excellence in teaching and course structure [1]. By presenting two novel approaches to displaying the survey data, we demonstrate that examination of the data in its entirety can provide information of great value to future students, as well as faculty and administrators [2-3].

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2026

Graduate education in optics in Japan and the United States: impact of funding levels on educational structure

We compare the optical science & engineering graduate-level educational environments at two universities in two countries: Utsunomiya University in Japan, and the University of Arizona in the United States. Because the university education systems in the two countries are so different, we also explain how financial resources drive many of these differences and discuss how these impact student and faculty life.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

Easy JavaScript Simulation (EJSS) Data Analytics for Singapore

We have integrated Easy JavaScript Simulation (EJSS) Data Analytics into the national Learning Management System for Singapore schools, known as the Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS). EJSS Data Analytics enhances the teaching and learning experience for educators and students by enabling educators to monitor and evaluate students interactions with interactive computer simulations. The data analytics and visualisation capabilities are delivered using the Moodle platform and version 1.3 of the specifications for Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI). In this paper, we showcase the potential for EJSS Data Analytics to identify students learning difficulties and misconceptions. Four examples of EJSS Data Analytics applications are provided to illustrate insights on aspects that include understanding a students sequential actions leading to specific task outcomes, the frequency of task attempts by each student, and the ratio of students achieving correct versus incorrect task completions. We identify five key considerations for designing the EJSS teacher dashboard. These considerations relate to Student Thought Process, Student Behaviour, Student Engagement, Student Choice, and Teacher Feedback. These five facets provide a framework for aligning our design efforts with the needs of students and teachers, also drawing upon research in data analytics for education.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

A diffraction approach to assess the elastic properties of a nylon string

The Youngś modulus of a nylon string has been determined experimentally by combining elasticity theory and wave optics. A diffraction experiment has been setup to determine the change in the string diameter for different tensile forces applied by means of hanging weights. A linear elasticity model has been used to calculate the Youngś modulus. A simple method has been provided which could be used as the basis of an experiment for introductory university level.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

Watch the Moon, Learn the Moon: Lunar Geology Research at School Level with Telescope and Open Source Data

Science-AI Symbiotic Group at Seven Square Academy, Naigaon was formed in 2023 with the purpose of bringing school students to the forefronts of science research by involving them in hands on research. In October 2023 a new project was started with the goal of studying the lunar surface by real-time observations and open source data. Twelve students/members from grades 8, 9, 10 participated in this research attempt wherein each student filled an observation metric by observing the Moon on various days with a Bresser Messier 150mm/1200mm reflector Newtonian telescope. After the observations were done, the members were assigned various zones on the lunar near side for analysis of geological features. Then a data analysis metric was filled by each of students with the help of Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera's/ LROC's quickmap open access data hosted by Arizona State University. In this short paper a brief overview of this project is given. One example each of observation metric and data analysis metric is presented. This kind of project has high impact for school science education with minimal costs. This project can also serve as an interesting science outreach program for organisations looking forward to popularise planetary sciences research at school level.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

Understanding Growth Mindset Practices in an Introductory Physical Computing Classroom: High School Students' Engagement with Debugging by Design Activities

Background and Context: While debugging is recognized as an essential practice, for many students, encountering bugs can generate emotional responses such as fear and anxiety that can lead to disengagement and the avoidance of computer programming. Growth mindsets can support perseverance and learning in these situations, yet few studies have investigated how growth mindsets emerge in practice amongst K-12 computing students facing physical computing debugging challenges. Objective: We seek to understand what (if any) growth mindset practices high school students exhibited when creating and exchanging buggy physical computing projects for their peers to solve during a Debugging by Design activity as part of their introductory computing course. Method: We focused on moment-to-moment microgenetic analysis of student interactions in designing and solving bugs for others to examine the practices students exhibited that demonstrated the development of a growth mindset and the contexts in which these practices emerged. Findings: We identified five emergent growth mindset practices: choosing challenges that lead to more learning, persisting after setbacks, giving and valuing praise for effort, approaching learning as constant improvement, and developing comfort with failure. Students most often exhibited these practices in peer-to-peer interactions and while making buggy physical computing projects for their peers to solve. Implications: Our analysis contributes to a more holistic understanding of students' social, emotional, and motivational approaches to debugging physical computing projects through the characterization of growth mindset practices. The presented inventory of growth mindset practices may be helpful to further study growth mindset in action in other computing settings.

cs.CY↗

arXiv2024

Learning difficulties among students when applying Ampère-Maxwell's law and its implications for teaching

We investigate learning difficulties among second-year students on electromagnetism courses when they apply Ampère-Maxwell's law. Using phenomenography, we analysed written answers from 65 undergraduate physics students to four questions on Ampère's and Ampère-Maxwell's laws. We complemented our research by interviewing twelve students. To design the questionnaire, we ran an epistemological analysis of classical electromagnetism which helped us to identify a set of key essential concepts to understand this theory and guided the definition of learning objectives and to draw up the questions. The results revealed that the students found it hard to recognise the validity framework from Ampère's law and to apply Ampère-Maxwell's law. They face particular difficulties to recognise the appearance of the displacement current and the relationship between the circulation of the magnetic field and an electric field that is variable over time.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2024

Quantum education in the frontier city of Kharkiv

This article provides the description of current training processes and structure of education in quantum physics at the Education and Research Institute "School of Physics and Technology" (SPT) of V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Ukraine. Crucial feature of quantum education at the SPT is the involvement of scientists and experts from national and international research centers who are actively working in the field. By taking example of particular quantum courses, we outline the main challenges in the educational process during the large-scale military aggression and the ways the lecturers, scientific employees, and students manage to overcome them. We also overview the recently emerged initiatives oriented on sustaining and development of quantum education in Kharkiv, as well as the international events with a broader impact. History of the School and its main achievements are provided in brief.

physics.ed-ph↗