Announcing creation of the Physics Education Research Group (PERG)

A new Research Group dedicated to Physics Pedagogy has been established in the School of Physics and Astronomy.

This 'Physics Education Research Group' (PERG) brings together staff who have interest and track record in developing students' learning and engagement in Physics, and will allow more in-depth research and development to be undertaken.

The group was founded in early 2016 but was formally launched on 23rd November 2016 with a seminar and lunch. The event was well attended by a variety of staff from across the university and allowed the group to showcase the range of projects already underway, and sow the seeds for future collaborations.

Alison Voice, who heads up the group, says: "It is exciting to be officially afforded the time to research and develop the learning experience of our students, with the aim of increasing their engagement and learning gain."

The Institute of Physics is very supportive of the development of Physics Education Research in the UK, and facilitates collaboration and dissemination within the Physics community.

The group has interest in all aspects of the student journey, from transition into HE and progression from one level to the next, through blended learning, to assessment and employability.

Samantha Pugh, one of the founding members, who has a track record of work in both progression and employability says: "With the advent of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) it is timely that we will be able to concentrate on delivering evidence-based research and high quality student education."

Further information about PERG, its members, current projects and activities can be found on the PERG website and more up to the minute information can be obtained via Twitter @PERGLeeds.