Modern Physics for lower secondary teachers (5-10)

This course deals with selected topics in modern physics for lower secondary school teachers. These include: quantum physics, its foundations and applications; statistical physics and the relationship between microscopic and macroscopic laws; relativity theories, their principles and consequences; particle physics; technological applications of modern physics.

KNOWLEDGE

The student

• has basic knowledge of quantum physics, its motivations, foundations and models
• has basic knowledge of statistical physics and the role probability and statistics play in physical phenomena
• has basic knowledge of particle physics, its development and models
• has further knowledge about how quantum theory describes the structure of the atomic nucleus, the atom, and molecules
• has knowledge about electromagnetic and particle radiation, and how these affect life and health
• has basic knowledge of the special and general theories of relativity
• has knowledge about technological applications based on quantum physics and relativity

SKILLS

The student

• can use simple mathematics to formulate and solve simple problems in modern physics
• can convey to lower secondary school students how modern physics research and knowledge is connected to various technologies and medical applications

GENERAL COMPETENCE

The student

• has an understanding of the challenges associated with the gap between modern physics and classical theories
• is familiar with how modern physics is connected to everyday phenomena
• understands the relevance of modern physics in a technology-driven society
• has insight into how modern physics can be introduced to lower secondary school students on the basis of the applicable curriculum

Lectures, exercises and activities. Teaching in English when English-speaking students participate, otherwise the course is given in Norwegian.