Basic course in physics B, distance learning

The course is offered as a stand-alone module within the main subject of physics, with a focus on pedagogical aspects. It is suitable as an introductory course in physics for trainee teachers and others with an interest in the natural sciences.

The course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of wave mechanics, optics and electricity, and consists of four modules. The course includes both theoretical and practical components, with the latter aimed at developing students’ experimental skills and addressing the didactic aspects of experimental physics.

Module 1. Wave Mechanics and Optics, 6.0 credits

Module 1 includes:

• Mechanical waves in gases, liquids and solids.
• Sound waves, infrasound and ultrasound. The Doppler effect.
• Electromagnetic fields. Electromagnetic waves and their properties.
• Polarisation, reflection, transmission, refraction, interference, diffraction.
• Coherence.
• Geometric optics. Optical instruments.
• Description of the propagation of light.

Examples from everyday life are included in the above-mentioned topics: sight, hearing, speech, urban noise, music, etc.

Module 2. Wave mechanics and optics, experimental problem-solving, 1.5 credits

During the course, students are given approximately 6 home experiments using equipment that is largely available in a normal home environment. In some cases, students may need to purchase certain materials.

Primary and secondary school curricula emphasise the importance of pupils understanding the connection between physical investigations and the development of concepts, models and theories. The home experiments are designed to encourage students to recognise this connection. During the home experiment, students are expected to reflect on the learning process and suggest how the phenomenon studied in the experiment should be presented to pupils or the general public.

Module 3. Electricity and Measurement Technology, examination, 6.0 credits

The module begins with the principles of electric and magnetic forces and then covers:

• Electrical phenomena and electrical measurement technology.
• Electric charge, Coulomb’s law, potential, electric fields.
• Electric current, electric circuits, resistance and capacitance, alternating current.
• Magnetic fields, the Lorentz force, charged particles in electric and magnetic fields, induction, inductance.
• Electrical measuring instruments and measurement techniques.

Module 4. Electrical Theory and Measurement Techniques, experimental problem-solving, 1.5 credits

During the course, students are given approximately 6 home experiments using equipment that is largely available in a normal home environment. In some cases, students may need to purchase certain materials.

Primary and secondary school curricula emphasise the importance of pupils understanding the connection between physical investigations and the development of concepts, models and theories. The home experiments are designed to encourage students to recognise this connection. During the home experiment, students are expected to reflect on the learning process and suggest how the phenomenon studied in the experiment should be presented to pupils or the general public.

The overall aim of the course is for students to develop a conceptual understanding of physics based on its scientific foundations. Upon completion of the course, students should have acquired a basic understanding of the development and nature of the subject of physics. They should also be aware of the criteria that distinguish science from pseudoscience.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to:

Knowledge and understanding

• be able to describe, explain and predict physical phenomena in nature, everyday life and society.
• be able to apply the scientific methods and models of physics.
• understand that experiments play a central role, and that knowledge is built up through the interplay of observations, models and theories.
• be able to identify and discuss ethical issues from a scientific perspective, as well as ethical issues arising from the natural sciences. 

Skills and abilities

• be able to present simpler physics problems orally and in writing.
• have developed the ability to plan and carry out experiments, as well as to use measuring instruments and analyse measurement data.
• be able to formulate hypotheses and models, and carry out experiments to verify or revise a hypothesis or a model.
• recognise the link between the ability to explain a physical phenomenon to others and one’s own understanding of it. 

Judgement and approach

• have developed their ability to analyse social issues from a scientific perspective.
• have developed their ability to explain physical phenomena.

The course is offered as a distance learning course with no compulsory attendance. However, a number of voluntary opportunities for practice exercises may be offered.

Examination takes place through compulsory problem-solving assignments, examinations (on campus) and home laboratory work and laboratory reports.

Subcourse 1: Assignments and written examination, 6.0 credits
Subcourse 2: Laboratory reports, 1.5 credits
Subcourse 3: Assignments and written examination, 6.0 credits
Subcourse 4: Laboratory reports, 1.5 credits

The grading scale comprises the grades Fail (U), Pass (G) and Pass with distinction (VG).

To obtain a Pass (G) for the entire course, a Pass (G) is required for all sub-courses.

To receive a VG grade for the entire course, a VG grade is required for sub-courses 1 and 3 and a G grade for sub-courses 2 and 4.

It is also possible to receive a VG grade for the entire course if the average of the two exam results for sub-courses 1 and 3 corresponds to the threshold for VG, in addition to the requirement of a G grade for sub-courses 2 and 4.

The following applies to each sub-course:

Sub-course 1: Classroom exam with a grade of U, G or VG.
Sub-course 2: A grade of G requires approved laboratory reports.
Sub-course 3: Classroom exam with a grade of U, G or VG.
Sub-course 4: A grade of G requires approved laboratory reports.

At the end of the course, students will have the opportunity to anonymously fill out a course evaluation.