Problem based learning
In Leicester the learning environment is based around problem-based learning (PBL) and integrates theory, computing and practical work with class and tutorial activities in a learning community. A restructured state -of-the-art laboratory has been designed and built as a dedicated PBL facility and will provides a unique space for teaching and group and individual study.
In addition there is a highly innovative 'Sectored PBL Laboratory' in which students from different years share facilities in laboratory sectors devoted to particular topics such as quantum optics and low temperature physics. This will also address a well-known weakness in the student experience of traditional practical work by using elements of e-learning to provide pre- and post-laboratory contexts for experiments.
For students in the partner institutions, and elsewhere, the use of video materials recorded at Leicester and the sharing of the laboratory e-learning elements will allow the PBL experience to be exported to other courses.
An additional CETL laboratory will provide hands-on experiments in, for example, the physics content of medical physics, biophysics, earth science, forensics and sports science strengthening visibly the message of the relevance of physics, both in outreach activities and for current and prospective students.
For more information about activities at the University of Leicester please visit our Activities and Projects section.
piCETL work at Leicester is building on the success of Project LeAP (Problem Based Learning in Astronomy and Physics). For more information about Project Leap visit the project website at www.le.ac.uk/leap/
For more information about the University of Leicester and their CETLs visit their website at www.le.ac.uk/cetl/
