IOP Groups

E-learning in Physics and Astronomy

Time:        10.30am - 4.00pm
Date:        Thursday 18th October 2007
Venue:      Niels Bohr Common Room, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester
                 6th floor, Schuster Laboratory, Brunswick Street, Manchester

Organised by Bob Lambourne (piCETL, Open University) and NIels Walet (University of Manchester)

E-learning, whether delivered through stand-alone packages or via a virtual learning environment such as Blackboard or Moodle, is playing an increasingly important part in the teaching of physics and astronomy in universities. This meeting provides a broad overview of the current state and possible future direction of physics and astronomy e-learning by reviewing current provision in a number of departments and discussing specific topics such as assessment, infrastructural support and the use of robotic telescopes and virtual laboratories. Many specific examples of good e-learning practice will be discussed and much hard won wisdom will be shared for the benefit of all those currently using or planning to use e-learning with their students.

Meeting fee: £20.00. Those planning to attend the meeting are asked to register in advance by sending an e-mail to Prof Niels R. Walet [niels.walet@manchester.ac.uk]. Payment may be made (at the event) in cash or by cheque made payable to “University of Manchester”. Regrettably it is not possible to accept payment by credit card or debit card.

Programme

10.30    Coffee
10.50    Welcome and introduction:  Bob Lambourne (OU)
11.00    Physics e-learning in Manchester:  Niels Walet (Manchester)
11.30    E-assessment in physics and astronomy:  Steve Swithenby (OU)
12.00    Developments in e-learning support:  Dick Bacon (HEA Physical Sciences Centre)
12.30    Discussion
12.45    Lunch
1.30      E-learning in Edinburgh: Simon Bates (Edinburgh)
2.00      E-learning for astronomy: Barbara Hassall (Central Lancashire)
2.30      Robotic telescopes:  Paul Roche (Faulkes Telescope/Las Cumbres Observatory)
3.00      The virtual laboratory:  Paul Hatherly (piCETL)
3.30      Tea and final discussion
4.00      End of meeting

This event is supported by piCETL, the Physics Innovations Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. 

The IOP Higher Education Group aims to promote all aspects of physics and astronomy education in universities and colleges. Its activities will be of interest to all those who teach in departments of physics (and astronomy), and to those who employ the graduates of such departments. The Group welcomes new members; those wishing to join should e-mail the Group Secretary, Dr Eamonn Cunningham, (eamonn.cunningham@dcu.ie).

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