This project produced an online astronomy course based on the free, online OpenStax textbook. When this project was conceived, about a year before the COVID-19 pandemic, the authors had no idea that in a short period of time, most college and university classes would be online. This abrupt change in modalities of courses, from traditional,…

Numerical simulations are playing an increasingly important role in modern science. In this work it is suggested to use a numerical study of the famous perihelion motion of the planet Mercury (one of the prime observables supporting Einsteins general relativity) as a test case to teach numerical simulations to high school students. The paper…

In recent years the realisation that children make decisions and choices about subjects they like in primary school became widely accepted. The role of the primary school teacher as the main ambassador for a subject is therefore crucial in inspiring and enthusing the younger generation towards STEM. However, in most European countries, primary…

This article presents an approach to integrating public e-lectures on contemporary physics into a traditional high-school syllabus. This approach was used in a long-distance professional development course for in-service physics teachers. Each lecture was related to a specific obligatory syllabus chapter, and was accompanied by learner-centred…

Cosmology education has become an integral part of modern physics courses. Directed by National Curricula, major UK examination boards have developed syllabi that contain explicit statements about the model of the Big Bang and the strong observational evidence that supports it. This work examines the similarities and differences in these…

Two physics courses which serve as alternatives to general college courses in physics are outlined: physics with astrophysics and physics with electronics. Details are given of the structure of the courses and third year options are specified. (DT)

Describes a course that includes a basic core section comprised of a lecture series integrated with programmed practicals and a project section comprised of activities designed to give the students practice in electronic problem solving. (GS)

Suggests a new approach for teaching secondary school quantum physics. Reviews traditional approaches and presents some characteristics of the three-part "Quantum Physics for Beginners" project, including: quantum physics, quantum mechanics, and a short historical survey. (SK)

Describes the Cosmology Distinction Course for gifted students completing their Higher School Certificate, which seeks to provide a challenging and stimulating broadly based one-year course that goes beyond the normal confines of traditional matriculation subjects. Presents a course outline, details on assessment, and reflections upon the first…

Examines which current A-level syllabuses include which bits of particle physics and surveys the many different types of resource available to teachers and students. (Author)

Describes the types of industrial studies course offerings available in higher education. Also discusses the bachelor of science program in industrial studies at Sheffield City Polytechnic. The program, which focuses on science-based industry, places equal emphasis on technological and business inputs. (JN)

Provides information on physics courses at 111 institutions in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Includes (when applicable) descriptions of regularly available and/or honors degree courses, course structure, special entry requirements, additional comments (such as information on alternative courses or transfer requirements), and source of…

Provides information on physics courses at universities and colleges of technology in Scotland. Includes (when applicable) descriptions of regularly available and/or honors degree courses, course structure, special entry requirements, additional comments (such as transfer requirements), and sources for additional information. (JN)