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[Phys-l] Computer-Tutorial, Independent Learning Physics Programs



I have heard that some universities and perhaps a few high schools are teaching physics through the use of computer tutorials followed up with independent practice problems for the students. Apparently the students go through the tutorials and then answer follow up questions in a computer lab during class hours, and the instructor is just a facilitator that circulates around giving help and hints as needed by the students. I have heard there are no formal lectures and I am not sure how they handle lab work. Has anyone heard about a program like this or have information about one that might be similar? My physics teaching colleague and I are very intrigued by this idea. We have a good size group of students at my 2000 student high school that we believe is independent, highly-skilled, and motivated enough to succeed in such a program. We also believe it will help some of these students who have the desire and capability to accelerate a little more rapidly through physics so they are not held up by the more average students. We feel the traditional one-size-fits-all of lecture, lab in a small group and then homework problems may not be the best fit for our top students and maybe not for any of our students. I would greatly appreciate it if anyone has more information on this approach.