Teaching Quantum Physics at Secondary Schools: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Quantum Physics (QP) a topic that is dealt at the university level. However, QP is beginning to be introduced at secondary schools. The aim of this study is to analyse the extent to which QP has been applied at secondary schools, what teaching methods teachers used to teach QP and what challenges teachers faced when teaching QP.  This systematic literature review focus on empirical studies published from 2017 to 2022 in English and in these three databases: SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Based on the PRISMA methodology, 24 articles were selected and thematically analysed. The themes identified on teaching methods were: 1) Using technology in teaching QP, 2) Experimental based learning and 3). Role of nature of science. Teachers faced three major challenges in teaching QP. First and second challenges are related to lack of laboratory equipment and related references respectively. The third challenge is on teachers’ misconceptions of QP concepts. The study draws the conclusion that teachers require training that focuses on teaching methods relevant for secondary school students. Future research to overcome teachers’ misconception for QP is imperative.