International Commission on Physics Education (ICPE) Newsletter, Issue 78

1 of 20 View this email in your browser !Number 78, November 2025 Chair’s Corner: Dear Physics Educators, I hope you are keeping well, winding down as you head to the end of 2025 and welcome 2026. !I draw your attention to the call for the 2025 ICPE Medal announced this in Newsletter. Please circulate and invite colleagues to be nominated. Commission C14 has been busy, with a couple of events. First ICPE 2025 in Ropar India is shaping up to be an inspirational event with students, teachers, educators, industry and outreach partners sharing their work. !Second, !C14 was involved in the IUPAP Pasifika Physics Summit held on November 18 and 19 UNESCO, ET Cube International and IUPAP Entrepreneurship and Innovation Bootcamp from 17 to 21 November, Bothe held in Nadi Fiji. The two-day Summit in a workshop format brought together physicists from across the Pacific to align and consider options for the future of physics in the region. Countries represented were Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Fiji. The focus was on listening to the needs of 2 of 20 physicists from the Pacific and understanding how structures and organisations from beyond the Pacific could be leveraged. Lastly C14 is working on another Book in the ICPE series. With this I wish you the best. Professor Manjula Sharma Chair, C14 International Commission on Physics Education, IUPAP Participants at the IUPAP Pasifika Physics Summit ICPE Medal: Call for ICPE Medal recipients 2025 In 1979 George Marx, a Hungarian researcher in the field of physics education, proposed to institute a medal to recognise “outstanding contributions to physics teaching of a kind that transcends national boundaries”. The Commission succeeded in establishing the award of an ICPE Medal with the following two criteria: The contributions to physics education should have extended over a considerable number of years; The contributions should be international in their scope and influence. The first award of the medal was made in 1980 to Professor Eric M. Rogers during the Trieste Conference on Education for Physics Teaching. The list of recipients can be found at IUPAP C14 ICPE Medal Awardees. 3 of 20 The medal was designed by the Hungarian artist Miklós Borsos. The face shows a symbolic picture: the interaction of human beings with forces of nature in the form of the four elements of the ancient Greek philosophers – earth, water, air and fire, the last one being symbolised by powerful rays of sunlight. The human beings capture the essence of physics education, as we seek to understand and share our understandings of nature. The back of the medal bears the text: ‘Awarded to N.N. by the International Commission on Physics Education of IUPAP for long and distinguished service to physics education’. Process: This call is for nominations for the 2025 ICPE Medal Awards. Medals will be awarded, only if worthy candidates are identified. Current C14 Commission members cannot be nominated, but past members can be. Submissions must (1) address the criteria, (2) be accompanied by a complete and up-to-date CV, (3) and include two references from recognized peers. ! Submissions must be sent to C14 Chair, Majula Sharma ([email protected]), and Secretary, Cristiano Mattos ([email protected]), by 30th of March 2026. The IUPAP Commission C14 will select the awardee. The Medal will be awarded at a relevant Conference with the awardee presenting. 2025: The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology Every year, UNESCO and the United Nations designate international observances to spotlight fields of global importance. These initiatives aim to foster collaboration, raise awareness, and inspire action across education, research, and policy. For 2025, the focus is on Quantum Science and 4 of 20 Technology, marking a century since the birth of quantum mechanics, a theory that revolutionized our understanding of nature and continues to shape cutting-edge technologies. Quantum mechanics emerged in the 1920s, transforming physics and enabling innovations such as semiconductors, lasers, and medical imaging. Today, quantum science underpins technologies like quantum computing, secure communication, and advanced sensing, with profound implications for society and the global economy. The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ2025) celebrates this legacy while looking ahead to a future driven by quantum innovation, education is central to this future. IYQ2025 was launched with an opening ceremony on 4–5 February at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. A highlight was a panel on Responsible Quantum Innovation, featuring C14 commissioner Prof. Farida Fassi of Mohammed V University representing Morocco. The discussion emphasised that ethical frameworks, global collaboration, and talent development are essential to ensure quantum technologies serve humanity. This event set the tone for a year of worldwide initiatives, many focused on preparing society through education and outreach. Education: The Cornerstone of Quantum Readiness Quantum technologies promise to reshape industries, economies, and daily life. But their complexity demands a society equipped not only to use these tools, but to understand and govern them responsibly. Education, at all levels, is the foundation for this readiness. From inspiring school students to training quantum engineers and informing policymakers, education ensures that quantum progress benefits everyone, not just a select few. 5 of 20 Quantum readiness means more than technical expertise. It requires conceptual understanding, ethical awareness, and the ability to integrate quantum thinking across disciplines. Teachers play a pivotal role, and curriculum innovation is essential to bring quantum ideas into classrooms worldwide. IYQ2025 places education at the heart of its mission. Countries are launching initiatives that combine research excellence with outreach, curriculum development, and teacher training. These efforts aim to demystify quantum science, build strong conceptual foundations, and prepare the next generation for careers in quantum technology. Across the globe, members of the International Commission on Physics Education are participating in celebrations that highlight education as the key to unlocking quantum’s potential. Here is how some nations are making quantum science accessible and inspiring learners during IYQ2025. Morocco Morocco’s celebrations emphasize ethics and equity in quantum innovation. At the opening ceremony, Prof. Farida Fassi of Mohammed V University represented Morocco in a panel discussion on Responsible Quantum Innovation, urging global collaboration to ensure breakthroughs serve societal needs. The conversation highlighted the importance of open access, diverse talent development, and ethical frameworks, particularly for emerging economies. With Africa projected to host a quarter of the world’s population by 2050, investment in education and research infrastructure is critical. Prof. Fassi called for international partnerships, innovation hubs, and tailored curricula to empower the next generation of quantum scientists. She also advocated for a Global Quantum Governance Forum, led by UNESCO, to establish shared ethical standards and guide responsible development. 6 of 20 Korea The Korean Physical Society (KPS) launched IYQ2025 with an official proclamation on February 5, signaling a year-long commitment to advancing quantum science in research, education, and public engagement. At its semiannual international conferences in April and October, seven special sessions explored breakthroughs and future directions in quantum research. A major highlight was the APEC Forum for Quantum Science and Technology, which convened experts from 21 economies to discuss global collaboration. Education-focused outreach included the “Physicists Return to Their Schools” program in May, where 45 physicists revisited their alma maters to inspire students with stories of discovery. From July to December, Korea’s leading science magazine published a six-part series, Quantum Mechanics Challenge, translating complex ideas into accessible narratives for the public. Germany Germany’s celebrations center on the theme “100 Years of Quantum Physics”, with events spanning research institutions, schools, and public venues. The official portal (quantum2025.de) lists regional activities, from lectures and exhibitions to interactive workshops. The year concludes on November 15 with a major event in Halle Münsterland, featuring public lectures, an exhibition, and a concert designed to make quantum science approachable for all. These events emphasize science communication and lifelong learning as essential tools for societal readiness. Brazil Across Ibero-America, Brazil leads efforts to honor quantum science’s centenary through education and outreach. The Brazilian Journal of Physics 7 of 20 Teaching (RBEF) published a special issue on the historical development of quantum mechanics in Latin America, highlighting pioneers such as Theodoro Ramos and the influence of global figures like Einstein and Curie. Academic events include “100 Years of Quantum Mechanics: Research, Teaching, and Outreach” at UFRGS and the Centenary Symposium at the Institute of Physics of São Carlos (USP), featuring tributes to Daniel Kleppner. The Ceará Relativity and Quantum Olympiad introduces high school students to modern physics, while the journal The Physics in School marks its 25th anniversary with a special issue aligned with IYQ2025 and Ampère’s 250th anniversary. These initiatives underscore Latin America’s contributions to quantum science and its commitment to education as a driver of equity and opportunity. Australia Australia’s celebrations combine research, education, and public engagement. Universities are hosting national lecture series on quantum computing, quantum sensing, and their societal impact. Outreach programs bring quantum science into schools through interactive demonstrations and teacher workshops. Science museums feature quantum-themed exhibitions, while public events highlight Australia’s leadership in quantum technologies, including quantum communication and precision measurement. These initiatives aim to inspire students and inform the public about the transformative potential of quantum science. The calendar of events can be found here: https://www.quantum2025.org.au/events/ Tributes and Farewells: Alan Van Heuvelen 1938-2024 Alan Van Heuvelen, a leading voice in physics education, passed away 8 of 20 on August 11, 2024. A long-time AAPT member, he taught at New Mexico State, Ohio State, and Rutgers University. Alan was awarded the 1999 Robert A. Millikan Medal for his transformative work in physics education research and curriculum design. In the 1980s, Alan shifted his focus to active learning, developing innovative strategies that reshaped introductory physics teaching. His Overview Case Study approach and Active Learning Problem Sheets (ALPS Kits) helped students build conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. He later expanded these resources to include electricity and magnetism and coauthored ActivPhysics, a multimedia program integrating interactive simulations with traditional materials. Alan championed representing physics concepts in multiple ways—visual, verbal, and mathematical—to deepen learning. He led or co-led around 100 workshops for educators worldwide, promoting active engagement and conceptual reasoning. His work inspired countless teachers to adopt research-based methods, making physics more accessible and meaningful for students globally. Alan’s legacy lies not only in his scholarship but in his generosity and encouragement. He leaves behind a community profoundly shaped by his vision for physics education. This is based on the AAPT article: https://www.aapt.org/aboutaapt/Alan-VanHeuvelen.cfm, photo is from: https://share.google/3TTYHz62YExvBTW7Z 9 of 20 ICPE Activities: Advancing Physics and Chemistry Education: Insights from the Lincei Conference How can research-based teaching transform science education? This question was central to the recent Meeting on the Teaching of Physics and Chemistry (https://linceiscuola.it/evento/convegno-didatticafisica-chimica-4-5-settembre-2025/), held on September 4–5, 2025, and organized by the Lincei Foundation for the School. Established in 2015, the Foundation promotes innovative teaching and learning through the national network project "The Lincei for a new didactic in the school: a national network", in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Education and the historic Accademia dei Lincei (https://www.lincei.it/it)—founded in 1603 and once home to Galileo Galilei and numerous Nobel laureates. Endorsed by ICPE, the Italian Association for Physics Teaching (AIF), the Italian Physical Society – Didactic Division, and the Italian Community of Physics Education Research (CooFIS08), the conference brought together leading educators and researchers after a year-long planning process chaired by Alberto Tesei. The program addressed crucial aspects of science teaching and learning, including laboratory activities with real-time examples, the role of models and representations (graphic, iconographic, and symbolic), and the integration of history and epistemology of science. Interdisciplinary themes such as health and nutrition education and STEM education in lower secondary schools were also central, with a dedicated round table showcasing international projects and research-validated proposals. 16 of 20 continents—everyone was open, fair, and totally interested. I hope we stay in touch with many of them.” Events like IYPT highlight the power of inquiry-based learning and global collaboration in physics education. They offer students an opportunity to engage deeply with science while developing teamwork and communication skills that transcend borders. Learn more and get involved: German Young Physicists’ Tournament (GYPT): www.gypt.org International Young Physicists’ Tournament (IYPT): www.iypt.org German Physical Society (DPG): www.dpg-physik.de Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Foundation: www.we-heraeus-stiftung.de Upcoming Conferences: IUPAP - International Conference on Physics Education, Ropar, India Dates: 16th - 20th December 2025 Theme: Preparing for the future in the age of virtual labs, AI and quantum technologies Website: http://www.icpe-2025.in/ The main focus of ICPE-2025 is to bring together Physics Educators, Teachers, Researchers, Graduate Students, and Policy Makers working in Physics Education Research, Physics Teacher Education, and Physics Education from all parts of the world to share and exchange scientific information, views and experiences on essential issues in Physics Education and Research. Themes Advancements in Physics Education Research Women in Physics Quantum Technology and Physics Education New Techniques in Physics Teaching Physics-Enabled Virtual Adaptability in Education Development of Experiments for Physics Teaching 17 of 20 Physics Outreach 1st International Symposium on Science Education, Complexity and CHAT (1st ISSECC) and 4th Meeting of the Research Group in Science and Complexity Education (4th EECCo), Brasil Dates: 25th - 28th November, 2025 Website: https://www.even3.com.br/ecco-meeting-595991/ The Research Group on Science and Complexity Education (ECCo) celebrates its 20 years of existence and contributions to the advancement of research in Science Education, Complexity Studies, and Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT). Founded in 2005 at the Institute of Physics of the University of São Paulo (IFUSP), ECCo has consolidated itself as an academic community for constructing knowledge and developing critical and socially engaged educational practices anchored in solid theoretical and methodological references. To commemorate this milestone, we are honored to announce the 1st International Symposium on Science Education, Complexity and CHAT (1st ISSECC) and the 4th Meeting of the Research Group in Science and Complexity Education (4th EECCo). The joint event will be held at the Institute of Physics of the University of São Paulo (São Paulo, Brazil) between November 25 and 28, 2025, and will bring together researchers, educators, and students from Brazil and abroad. The central theme of the symposium, "Bridging and expanding theory and practice," reflects our commitment to fostering a dialogue between theoretical development and didactic practice in Science Education. Our goal is to explore CHAT as a vigorous framework for addressing contemporary educational challenges, such as combating scientific misinformation, promoting critical science literacy, and building socially and equitably meaningful learning environments. 2nd Meeting on Particle Physics Outreach and Education, IPPOG, Brasil Dates: 15th -16th December, 2025 Website: https://indico.cern.ch/e/ippog-brasil-2025 The importance of disseminating and teaching contemporary physics topics - such as Quantum Physics and Particle Physics - has become increasingly recognized among researchers and educators in science education. Beyond its 18 of 20 scientific value, this knowledge plays a crucial role in cultural formation and in fostering informed citizenship. Following the success of the first meeting held in 2020, the II Encontro sobre Divulgação e Ensino de Física de Partículas (2nd Meeting on Particle Physics Outreach and Education) will take place online on December 15–16, 2025. Event page: https://indico.cern.ch/e/ippog-brasil-2025 Organized by the Brazilian branch of the International Particle Physics Outreach Group (IPPOG) and hosted on the Brazilian Physical Society (SBF) website, this event aims to strengthen dialogue among scientists, educators, and science communicators, fostering exchange and collaboration in particle physics education and outreach. Building upon the discussions initiated in its first edition, the 2025 meeting will feature presentations on teaching experiences, science communication initiatives, and research in particle physics education developed across Brazil. It seeks to reinforce national and international networks, bringing together all those dedicated to promoting public understanding of particle physics. A key goal of the meeting is to inspire a new generation of researchers and educators by recognizing the legacy of the pioneers who introduced these themes in Brazil, while advancing a critical and inclusive agenda for the country’s scientific culture. The event also aligns with Brazil’s current highereducation policies that encourage the integration of teaching, research, and outreach, thereby amplifying the social impact of academic initiatives. We warmly invite educators, students, researchers, and outreach professionals to join this vibrant exchange of ideas! GIREP-MPTL 2026 Conference, Rethymno, Crete, Greece Theme: Bridging Physics Education and Society in the Digital Era Dates: 6th - 10th July 2026 Website: https://indico.cern.ch/event/1527018/ Details: The GIREP-MPTL 2026 Conference will be held in Rethymno, Crete, Greece. It is organized by the International Research Group on Physics Teaching (GIREP: Groupe International de Recherche sur l’Enseignement de la 19 of 20 Physique), the Multimedia in Physics Teaching and Learning (MPTL), and the Science Teaching Lab (STL) of the Department of Primary Education, University of Crete (UoC). American Association of Physics Teachers 2026 AAPT Winter Meeting, Horseshoe, Las Vegas, USA Dates: January 17–19, 2026 Website: https://aapt.org/Conferences/WM2026/index.cfm Details: Join Us at the 2026 AAPT Winter Meeting in Las Vegas! Surround yourself with physics educators from across the country at the 2026 AAPT Winter Meeting in Las Vegas! This annual gathering brings together a dynamic community of professionals to exchange ideas, share research, and explore the latest innovations in physics education. Attend engaging plenary talks, participate in thought-provoking sessions and hands-on workshops, and take advantage of unique networking opportunities with fellow educators and leaders in the field. Whether you're new to AAPT or a longtime member, Winter Meeting offers inspiration, connection, and community. The 2026 AAPT Winter Meeting will be held at the Horseshoe Las Vegas, located right on the iconic Las Vegas Strip. With its convenient location, updated amenities, and access to world-class entertainment and dining, the venue provides an exciting backdrop for professional learning. If you have conferences you would like included in future ICPE Newsletters please email them to [email protected] . Future Newsletters: If you would like to contribute to the next newsletter or have resources you would like included please email me: [email protected] . This newsletter aims to reflect the international physics education community. 20 of 20 The next newsletter is scheduled to be sent out at the end of May 2026. Thanks! Copyright (C) 2025 School of Physics, UNSW. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. Thanks to Copilot for editing assistance image creation Our mailing address is: Editor: Professor Elizabeth Angstmann email: [email protected] School of Physics, UNSW Old Main Building UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia Visit our website at: https://iupap.org/who-we-are/internal-organization/commissions/c14-physics-education/ Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or subscribe or unsubscribe