2023 BFY4 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: |
Student perspectives about seeing quantum effects in experiments |
| Abstract: |
Quantum mechanics is a field often considered very mathematical and abstract. To make quantum more concrete, some instructors expose their students to fundamental quantum phenomena in an experimental setting. This can be done in undergraduate instructional labs with a sequence of quantum optics experiments referred to as the single-photon experiments. Here, we present results from an interview study about what it means to both instructors and students to see quantum effects in experiments. Focusing on student experiences with the single-photon experiments, we find that students believe they are observing quantum effects and achieving related learning goals. Although it is not possible to see the quantum phenomena directly with their eyes, students point out different aspects of the experiments that contribute to them observing quantum effects. There is also variation across student achievement of related learning goals, ranging from many of the students being excited about these experiments and making a connection between the mathematical theory and the experiments to only some of the students seeing a connection between these experiments and quantum technologies. This work can help instructors consider the importance and framing of quantum experiments. |
| Abstract Type: |
Poster
|
Author/Organizer Information |
| Primary Contact: |
Victoria Borish
University of Colorado Boulder and JILA
|
Co-Author(s)
and Co-Presenter(s) |
Heather Lewandowski, University of Colorado Boulder and JILA
|
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