Peer instruction allows students get to get continuous feedback on their performance. At the same time the lecturer gets instant feedback about the effectiveness of his or her teaching. A key component of peer instruction for our large classes has been the use of 'clickers'.
Peerwise allows author their own assessment questions on the content of courses.
Challenging students to author their own assessment requires them to focus on the important concepts and learning outcomes of a course. Developing effective alternatives encourages students to reflect on possible misconceptions, and explaining the answer to a question in their own words reinforces understanding.
The Physics Education Research group plays an active role in deploying and evaluating the effectiveness of instructional techniques such as these, with research funding from a variety of internal and external sources.
The Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA) recognises and rewards academics who provide quality teaching to their students. The impact of these awards, past winners and a nomination form is available from the EUSA website.
In recognition of his key contributions to these projects Simon Bates was awarded the EUSA Innovative Teaching Award for 2011.
