Indicates a research-demonstrated benefit

Workshop Physics

Overview

A calculus-based introductory physics curriculum designed to completely replace traditional lectures and laboratories with sequenced activities. In a typical two-hour Workshop Physics class session, students work in groups of 3 or 4 to make and discuss predictions and then use equipment and computer tools for simple observations, data acquisition, visualization, analysis, and mathematical modeling.

	Type of Method	Full curriculum, Classroom structure
	Level	Designed for: Intro College Calculus-based Can be adapted for: High School, Intro College Algebra-based, (Explorations in Physics uses the Workshop Physics style of guided inquiry but it designed for use in non science major classes)
	Setting	Designed for: Studio Can be adapted for: Lecture - Small (<30 students), Lab
	Coverage	Many topics with less depth, The topic coverage has been reduced by about 15% so it is between broad and deep.
	Topics	Mechanics, Electricity / Magnetism, Waves / Optics, Thermal / Statistical, Modern / Quantum
	Instructor Effort	Medium
	Resource Needs	Teaching Assistants / Learning Assistants, Projector in class, Computers for student use in class, Computers for student use outside of class, Lab equipment for student use - professional, Cost for students, Tables arranged for group work
	Skills	Designed for: Conceptual understanding of physics content, Connecting conceptual and mathematical understanding, Coherent framework for physics, Self-confidence around physics, Enjoyment of physics, Laboratory skills, Representing knowledge in multiple ways, Designing experiments, Think like a scientist, Creativity, collaborative skills Can be adapted for: Autonomy, Problem-solving skills, Reflecting on one's own learning
	Research Validation	Based on research into: how students learn, student ideas about specific topics Demonstrated to improve: scores on multiple choice conceptual tests, beliefs about physics, attitudes about physics, laboratory skills, retention of students Studied using: conceptual pre/post exams, beliefs pre/post exams, student interviews, research conducted at multiple institutions
	Compatible Methods	PhET, JiTT, ILDs, Physlets, RealTime Physics, SCALE-UP, OSP, LA Program, MBL, CPU
	Similar Methods	ILDs, RealTime Physics, SCALE-UP, MBL, EiP
	Developer(s)	Priscilla Laws with contributions from Robert Boyle, Patrick Cooney, Kenneth Laws, John Luetzelschwab, David Sokoloff and Ronald Thornton
	Website	http://physics.dickinson.edu/~wp_web/wp_homepage.html