At UWC, our physics students learn introductory physics through experiences that capture the essence of becoming a physicist. This involves taking on a physicist-like approach to observing, finding patterns, building and testing explanations of the patterns, and using multiple representations to reason about physical phenomena.

Our teaching and learning environment draws on the Investigative Science Learning Environment (ISLE) developed by Rutgers University. We complement this approach by having using a peer instruction model to enable enhanced learning.

Our assessment is based upon conceptual understanding, problem-solving ability, and the ability to approach these in a scientific frame of mind.