A new introductory quantum mechanics curriculum

Abstract

The Institute of Physics New Quantum Curriculum consists of freely available online learning and teaching materials (quantumphysics.iop.org) for a first course in university quantum mechanics starting from two-level systems. This approach immediately immerses students in inherently quantum mechanical aspects by focusing on experiments that have no classical explanation. It allows from the start a discussion of interpretive aspects of quantum mechanics and quantum information theory. This article gives an overview of the resources available at the IOP website. The core text is presented as around 80 articles co-authored by leading experts that are arranged in themes and can be used flexibly to provide a range of alternative approaches. Many of the articles include interactive simulations with accompanying activities and problem sets that can be explored by students to enhance their understanding. Much of the linear algebra needed for this approach is part of the resource. Solutions to activities are available to instructors. The resources can be used in a variety of ways from supplements to existing courses to a complete programme.

arXiv comment10 pages, 2 figures, 1 table; submitted to the European Journal of Physics

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• Validation and Administration of a Conceptual Survey on the Formalism and Postulates of Quantum Mechanics
• Improving performance in quantum mechanics with explicit incentives to correct mistakes
• Interactive Learning Tutorial on Quantum Key Distribution
• Quantum interactive learning tutorial on the double-slit experiment to improve student understanding of quantum physics
• Entangle me! A game to demonstrate the principles of Quantum Mechanics
• Interactive simulations for quantum key distribution
• Student understanding of Fermi energy, the Fermi-Dirac distribution and total electronic energy of a free electron gas
• Investigating and improving student understanding of the basics of quantum computing
• Preparing Pre-College Students for the Second Quantum Revolution with Core Concepts in Quantum Information Science
• Effectiveness of interactive tutorials in promoting "which-path" information reasoning in advanced quantum mechanics
• Student Understanding of the Bloch Sphere
• Can students apply the concept of "which-path" information learned in the context of Mach Zehnder Interferometer to the double-slit experiment?
• Virtual learning environment for interactive engagement with advanced quantum mechanics
• Improving student understanding of quantum mechanics underlying the Stern-Gerlach experiment using a research-validated multiple-choice question sequence
• Challenges in addressing student difficulties with time-development of two-state quantum systems using a multiple-choice question sequence in virtual and in-person classes
• Challenges in addressing student difficulties with measurement uncertainty of two-state quantum systems using a multiple-choice question sequence in online and in-person classes
• Challenges in addressing student difficulties with quantum measurement of two-state quantum systems using a multiple-choice question sequence in online and in-person classes
• Seeing quantum effects in experiments
• A Simple game simulating quantum measurements of qubits
• Implementation and goals of quantum optics experiments in undergraduate instructional labs
• Using multiple representations to improve student understanding of quantum states
• Student reasoning about quantum mechanics while working with physical experiments
• Preparing students for the quantum information revolution: Interdisciplinary teaching, curriculum development, and advising in quantum information science and engineering
• Reflections of quantum educators on strategies to diversify the second quantum revolution
• Strategies educators can use to counter misinformation related to the quantum information revolution
• Improving student understanding of quantum measurement in infinite-dimensional Hilbert space using a research-based multiple-choice question sequence
• Do we have a quantum computer? Expert perspectives on current status and future prospects