Interactive lecture demonstrations, active learning, and the ALOP project

There is considerable evidence from the physics education literature that traditional approaches are ineffective in teaching physics concepts. A better teaching method is to use the active learning environment, which can be created using interactive lecture demonstrations. Based on the active learning methodology and within the framework of the UNESCO mandate in physics education and introductory physics, the ALOP project (active learning in optics and photonics) was started in 2003, to provide a focus on an experimental area that is adaptable and relevant to research and educational conditions in many developing countries. This project is discussed in this paper.

[1]  Priscilla W. Laws,et al.  Calculus‐Based Physics Without Lectures , 1991 .

[2]  Ronald K. Thornton,et al.  Learning motion concepts using real‐time microcomputer‐based laboratory tools , 1990 .

[3]  Ronald K. Thornton,et al.  RealTime Physics: active learning labs transforming the introductory laboratory , 2007 .

[4]  David R. Sokoloff.  Active learning of introductory optics: interactive lecture demonstrations and optics magic tricks , 2007, International Topical Meeting on Education and Training in Optics and Photonics.

[5]  Robert J. Dufresne,et al.  Classtalk: A classroom communication system for active learning , 1996, J. Comput. High. Educ..

[6]  Priscilla W. Laws,et al.  Workshop Physics Activity Guide , 1996 .

[7]  L. McDermott.  Research on conceptual understanding in mechanics , 1984 .

[8]  E. Mazur,et al.  Peer Instruction: Ten years of experience and results , 2001 .

[9]  Vasudevan Lakshminarayanan,et al.  Active learning in optics and photonics (ALOP): a model for teacher training and professional development , 2010, Optical Engineering + Applications.

[10]  Lillian C. McDermott,et al.  Millikan Lecture 1990: What we teach and what is learned—Closing the gap , 1991 .

[11]  Minella C. Alarcon.  Active Learning : in Optics and Photonics , 2008 .

[12]  Ibrahim A. Halloun,et al.  The initial knowledge state of college physics students , 1985 .

[13]  Dan Curticapean,et al.  Perspectives of mobile learning in optics and photonics , 2010, Optical Engineering + Applications.

[14]  Ronald K. Thornton,et al.  Realtime Physics: Active Learning Laboratories , 1998 .