Physics education and history of physics

The research group in Didactics and History of Physics is concerned with understanding and improving the teaching and learning processes of physics. Educational research focuses on fundamental topics in contemporary physics (relativity, thermodynamics, and quantum physics), STEM topics (climate change, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies), and interdisciplinary integration, particularly between physics and mathematics. A key area of concern is the analysis of scientific knowledge construction processes and the development of future-oriented, sustainable, and interdisciplinary skills.

The group is heavily involved in teacher training, designing and testing innovative teaching materials and activities in school and training contexts. Research uses both qualitative and quantitative approaches.

The historical field focuses on the evolution of physical theories, experimental practices, and scientific instruments, utilizing symbolic sources and materials from archives, libraries, and museums. Particular attention is paid to scientific museology and the preservation and enhancement of scientific and historical heritage.

The group is actively involved in a broad international research network, participating in and coordinating national and European projects, including the Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020 programs. It is also responsible for organizing international research events, such as the ESERA 2019 conference (https://esera2019.org/index.html).