Pre‐university physics presented in a thematic and systematic way: experiences with a Dutch Physics Curriculum Development Project

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Abstract
In the Netherlands a team of people from universities and schools is developing a new, three‐year curriculum for pre‐university physics education for the age group 15‐18. This curriculum emphasizes the connections between physics and daily life, society and technology and provides a better preparation for pupils’ further education. Compared with traditional courses this course gives more attention to topics in modern physics and to the development of research skills, and pupils are shown how science is practised. An experimental new examination programme has been constructed in connection with the curriculum. The curriculum itself consists of thematic units centred around realistic and relevant contexts, as well as systematic units, the main aim of which is to develop fundamental concepts and problem‐solving skills. In the classroom the new course stimulates the use of a variety of teaching methods and encourages differentiation. Evaluation research and research into conceptual development are also being done in connection with this course.

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