Physics in Films: An Assessment

Abstract

Physics in Films is an alternative version of the physical science course offered to non-science majors at the University of Central Florida. The course uses the popularity of Hollywood films to generate interest in science and to engage students that have traditionally been resistant to taking science courses. Scenes that lead to teachable science moments are identified in films and then used in class to concretize abstract physical concepts. With the wide variety of movies available, different "flavors" of the course, each specializing in a certain genre of film, have been created. This creates an audience of students with a high level of interest in the teaching tool and helps enhance their learning experience. In addition to the films, the course uses electronic student response systems to increase class participation. Although the course was first developed during the academic year 2002-2003, we continue to develop and assess it. After a brief outline of the motivation for the development of the course, we will discuss the different versions of the course and the teaching techniques used, including the use of the student response systems, and present data on the performance of the students in the course. Moreover, we will present feedback on the course acquired from video interviews with participating students.