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Outline:

The Physics Education module examines Physics as a discipline in secondary education. The module explores a wide range of teaching and learning issues in school as well as considering the nature of scientific knowledge and the role and structure of school science education in the context of the education system as a whole. The Physics Education module aims to provide Physics undergraduate students who have an interest in Physics and science education at secondary level, and/or who aspire to become a secondary school teacher, with an understanding of science teaching and learning at school. The module explores some of the theoretical underpinnings of Science and Physics education as well as the theoretical and practical foundations of teaching Physics to young people in a secondary school.

Aims:

Develop students’ knowledge and understanding of secondary school-based Physics and Science to inform choices for potential future careers in Physics education
Encourage students to examine, in a critical but constructive way, issues relating to Physics and Science education in secondary schools.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

• Explain the epistemological foundations of the nature of science knowledge and its impact on teaching processes;
• Describe common learning theories that guide the secondary Physics and science curriculum in the UK and the pedagogical underpinnings of teaching and learning in secondary schools in the UK;
• Critically evaluate the aims of Physics education in schools and consider how secondary school students’ conceptual understanding of Physics is developed;
• Discuss the importance of a range of pedagogical approaches, including practical work and investigations that support students’ knowledge and understanding of Physics in secondary schools.

Teaching & Learning Methodology:

Weekly sessions that includes up to two practical sessions. Discussion is actively encouraged in all sessions so students can provide their own views and arguments about education so that ideas are co-constructed in a collaborative manner.

Indicative Topics:

• Aims of Physics Education
• Learning Theories in Physics Education
• The Nature of Science
• Inclusivity in Physics Education
• Interest and Motivation in education
• Practical Work in Physics
• The Science Curriculum