Changing the role of experiments in learning physics

Abstract

In our active learning workshop, we presented a typical treatment of a topic in a collaborative, student-centred approach to a physics course using the Investigative Science Learning Environment (ISLE) approach. The topic of torque, suitable for high school and introductory university physics courses, was explored through hands-on activities, with a special focus on laboratory work. In the ISLE approach, experiments take a central role as generators of “theory”, testers of its validity and important applications of theory. This is epistemologically more authentic than a theory-first approach typically used in traditional teaching. Active participation in the activities and discussions motivated participants to reflect on their own teaching practices and to consider adopting the ISLE approach in their classrooms.