The attitudes towards, and experiences of, laboratory teaching in Year 1 chemistry and physics university courses

Abstract

Our study compares the attitudes to their lab experience of students in two science subjects, Chemistry and Physics. We found this to be consistent across the disciplines. Laboratory learning is appreciated by students, as a means to develop knowledge and skills. Many of the benefits that students report are in line with the aims set out by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) for practical teaching. This suggests that laboratory teaching in both subjects is meeting its goals and providing a valuable contribution to the education of students.