LivePhoto Physics: Digital Videos for Lectures and Assignments

Muskingum College, New Concord OH

Investigators

Abstract

Physics (13) The LivePhoto Physics project is developing a collection of digital video analysis materials for introductory physics courses, using research-based development methods that were refined through projects such as Tools for Scientific Thinking and Workshop Physics. These materials include videos, lecture demonstration sequences, homework assignments, instructor notes, and software. In digital video analysis, students use computers as laboratory instruments to make measurements on video images of real events. These techniques are being used increasingly in physics courses, and there is evidence that they are effective in teaching physics concepts. In spite of the wealth of mass-media and educational videos available that can be used in laboratories or student projects, very few existing videos are ideal for analysis by students. The LivePhoto Physics project is meeting this need by producing a collection of digital videos that span many of the topics covered in a one-year physics course, including videos made with high- speed/slow-motion equipment that is not available at most teaching facilities. An innovative aspect of the project is that the topic selection is being guided by the results of physics education research. Written curricular materials using the videos in Interactive Lecture Demonstrations, distance-learning exercises and extended homework problem sets are being produced and classroom tested in a three-year research-based development cycle. Field testing is taking place at two-year colleges and four-year colleges/universities with diverse student audiences. Computer software that extends the display and visualization capabilities of digital video analysis is being developed during the project. The final set of videos, curricular materials and software will be published in the form of a CD. The LivePhoto Physics project is addressing the need for faculty development and the integration of technology in education by sponsoring six workshops on the use of digital video analysis in physics teaching.