Taking a Scientific Approach to Teaching

Taking a Scientific Approach to Teaching

Speaker: Professor Elizabeth Angstmann, School of Physics, University of New South Wales

As scientists, we routinely use evidence to guide our research, yet many of us rely on intuition, tradition, or personal experience when making teaching decisions. This masterclass explores what research from education, cognitive psychology, and discipline-based education research tells us about how students learn and which teaching practices are most effective.

We will examine several influential ideas, including cognitive load theory, the worked example effect, active learning, and Self-Determination Theory, and discuss what the evidence says about their impact on student learning, motivation, and engagement. Rather than focusing on theory alone, the session will emphasise practical implementation. Participants will leave with concrete strategies that can be used immediately in tutorials and laboratories, approaches for designing more effective lectures, and broader curriculum and assessment practices for those responsible for course design.

Whether you are a tutor, lecturer, or course convenor, this session will help you make evidence-informed decisions that improve student learning and create more engaging learning environments.

Professor Elizabeth Angstmann is an education focussed academic in the School of Physics at UNSW. She was First Year Director from 2011-2023 before moving into the role of Higher Year Director. Prior to this she obtained her PhD in theoretical atomic physics but decided to focus her career on education and obtained a master’s degree in teaching. Her educational background and experience as a high school teacher underpin her use of sound pedagogical bases in her courses. She has an interest in the appropriate use of technology in education and active learning methods. Liz has focused on expanding physics education at the University of New South Wales, introducing both new subjects and degrees. In 2018 she launched an online graduate certificate in physics for science teachers. This exemplifies her passion about assisting school teachers to provide the best possible physics experience for their students. Liz is a past Chair of Physics Education Group of the Australian Institute of Physics. Her work has been recognised through the award of an Australian Award for University Teaching citation in 2018 and the prestigious Australian institute of Physics Education Medal in 2020. In 2025 Liz has an ACDS fellowship to look at "Beyond Grades: Embracing Competency-Based Assessment for Enhanced Learning".