Using seminar-based instruction to convey contemporary research to undergraduates

Presentation Date: 

Monday, November 26, 2012

Location: 

Materials Research Society 2012 Fall Meeting (Boston, MA)

Presentation Slides: 

In the standard lecture-based approach to teaching, the focus is often on content and not on the development higher cognitive skills. The seminar method of teaching focuses on the development of such important skills, including independent research, reading, writing, presenting, debating and peer review. The method involves creating an environment for students where they can interact with each other on one or more themes under the guidance of an instructor. While the focus is on the development of skills, the students must master advanced content in order to participate in the course. I will show how this method can be applied to a junior-level course focusing on topics in contemporary physics.