New group to drive learning and engagement in physics

A NEW team dedicated to driving forward the development of teaching and learning in physics has been launched.

The 'Physics Education Research Group', or, PERG, brings together staff who have interest and track record in developing students' learning and engagement in physics to promote more in-depth research and development.

Founded at the University of Leeds School of Physics and Astronomy in early 2016, it was formally launched in November with a seminar and lunch where the group showcased a range of projects already underway, and 'sowed the seeds for future collaborations'.

Dr Alison Voice, of the School of Physics & Astronomy, who heads up the group, says: "It is exciting to be officially afforded the time to research and develop the learning experience of our students, with the aim of increasing their engagement and learning gain.

"We're looking forward to working more closely with the Institute of Physics, which is very supportive of the development of physics education research in the UK, and facilitates collaboration and dissemination within the physics community."

The group has interest in all aspects of the student journey, from transition into HE and progression from one level to the next, through blended learning, to assessment and employability.

 

Dr Samantha Pugh, one of the founding members, who has a track record of work in both progression and employability, says: "With the advent of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) it is timely that we will be able to concentrate on delivering evidence-based research and high quality student education."

The group will also be working closely with the Leeds Institute for Teaching Excellence (LITE), which was launched  October. This is a community of research and innovation with the aim of establishing the University of Leeds as a sector leader in teaching practice and scholarship.

Further information about PERG, its members, current projects and activities can be found at:  http://www.physics.leeds.ac.uk/perg  and more up to the minute information can be obtained via Twitter @PERGLeeds.