Quantum Interactive Learning Tutorials (QuILTs)

Developed by: Chandralekha Singh and PER team at the University of Pittsburgh

Level
 
middle schoolhigh schoolintro collegeinter-mediateupper levelgrad school   other



Topics
Modern / Quantum
Setting
Lecture - Large (30+ students)  Lecture - Small (<30 students)  Recitation/Discussion Session  Homework  Studio


What? Worksheets, clicker questions, and homework for quantum mechanics including contemporary topics. Connect quantitative formalism to qualitative understanding and build physical intuition. Use visualization tools from Open Source Physics. Can be used in class, as homework, or as a self-study tool.

Why? They use visualization tools to help students build physical intuition about quantum processes. They keep students actively engaged in the learning process. They bridge the gap between abstract quantitative formalism and qualitative understanding. They can supplement your existing materials.

Why not? You might prefer to use different research-based materials designed for quantum mechanics courses, such as Paradigms in Physics or CU upper-division QM curriculum.

Example materials

 

Student skills developed

Designed for:
  • Conceptual understanding
  • Making real-world connections
  • Using multiple representations
  • Metacognition

Instructor effort required

  • Medium

Intro Article: C. Singh, Interactive Learning Tutorials on Quantum Mechanics, Am. J. Phys. 76 (4), 400 (2008).

You can download all the QuILTS for free from their PhysPort curriculum page.

RESEARCH VALIDATION
Bronze Validation
This is the third highest level of research validation, corresponding to:
  • at least 1 of the "based on" categories
  • at least 1 of the "demonstrated to improve" categories
  • at least 1 of the "studied using" categories
(Categories shown below)

Research Validation Summary

Based on Research Into:

  • theories of how students learn
  • student ideas about specific topics

Demonstrated to Improve:

  • conceptual understanding
  • problem-solving skills
  • lab skills
  • beliefs and attitudes
  • attendance
  • retention of students
  • success of underrepresented groups
  • performance in subsequent classes

Studied using:

  • cycle of research and redevelopment
  • student interviews
  • classroom observations
  • analysis of written work
  • research at multiple institutions
  • research by multiple groups
  • peer-reviewed publication

References