Paradigms in Physics

Developed by: Oregon State University Physics Department

Level
 
middle schoolhigh schoolintro collegeinter-mediateupper levelgrad school   other



Topics
Mechanics  Electricity / Magnetism  Waves / Optics  Thermal / Statistical  Modern / Quantum  Mathematical
Setting
Lecture - Large (30+ students)  Lecture - Small (<30 students)  Recitation/Discussion Session  Lab  Homework  Studio


What? Activities for upper-level physics including kinesthetic activities, computer simulations, integrated whiteboarding, and other small group activities. Can be incorporated into a standard course, or used as part of a restructuring of the undergraduate curriculum.

Student skills developed

Designed for:
  • Conceptual understanding
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Lab skills
  • Making real-world connections
  • Using multiple representations
Can be adapted for:
  • Metacognition

Instructor effort required

  • High

Developer's website: Paradigms in Physics

You can download activities, activity sequences, homework problems, and teaching tips for free from the Paradigms in Physics curricular materials website.

RESEARCH VALIDATION
Bronze Validation
This is the third highest level of research validation, corresponding to:
  • at least 1 of the "based on" categories
  • at least 1 of the "demonstrated to improve" categories
  • at least 1 of the "studied using" categories
(Categories shown below)

Research Validation Summary

Based on Research Into:

  • theories of how students learn
  • student ideas about specific topics

Demonstrated to Improve:

  • conceptual understanding
  • problem-solving skills
  • lab skills
  • beliefs and attitudes
  • attendance
  • retention of students
  • success of underrepresented groups
  • performance in subsequent classes

Studied using:

  • cycle of research and redevelopment
  • student interviews
  • classroom observations
  • analysis of written work
  • research at multiple institutions
  • research by multiple groups
  • peer-reviewed publication

References