Aims
SUPERCOMET targets in-service training of physics teachers through offering a new toolkit for inspiring and encouraging pupils to learn exciting physics in a non-traditional fashion. Combining modern pedagogical methods (e.g. collaborative learning and student-centered problem solving) with computer animations, the SUPERCOMET project aims to develop a computer application that will connect the intriguing phenomenon of superconductivity with the curricula subjects of upper secondary schools in several countries [1].
Partnership
The SUPERCOMET partnership consists of three universities, two secondary schools, a publishing house and a science communications company. The seven partners are located in Norway, Italy, Slovenia and UK, providing a diverse geographical background, complementing each other¬fs competency in areas such as pedagogy, superconductivity physics, computer science, physics education, software engineering, physics teaching, publishing, ICT-based learning and teacher training.
SUPERCOMET 2
We have been awarded further funding by the EU Leonardo da Vinci Programme for a follow-up project for continued development and dissemination of the SUPERCOMET materials. The new partnership will consistsof partners in 15-20 countries, and an important objective of the follow-up project is to handle the challenges of localization and adaptation necessary to make successful translations of the produced materials.
Animations
Photograph of levitation at -196 degrees C
References
[1] Engstrom, V. Cepic, M., McGrath, J., Colombo, G. (2002) 'Comparing national physics curricula for the SUPERCOMET project'. Proceedings GIREP 2002, Lund Sweden. Available at: http://www.girep.fysik.lu.se/abstracts/fullText/101.pdf
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