OpticsLearn: an educational tool for optics

• Main Author: Wang, Kangxin
• Other Authors: Qian Kemao
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2023
• Subjects: Engineering::Computer science and engineering::Software
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/165851
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Optics is an important topic for computing students to learn but many students do not know its significance. Coupled with the shortage of skilled manpower in the optics industry, it is imperative for students to learn more about optics as a career and consider it as a viable career option after graduation. After the Covid-19 pandemic, teachers have adopted blending learning approach which combines online educational materials with traditional face-to-face interactions. With the proliferation of technology, smart devices like smartphones and laptops are used as a platform for students’ learning. In consideration of the portability of the devices, students are more inclined to use mobile phones which allow them to be able to view educational content on the go. Furthermore, students perceive learning through mobile applications to be more effective due to the quick access to information they provide. As such, incorporating forums in mobile applications can serve as a substitute for face-to-face discussions among students, which is a crucial aspect of active learning. Existing educational mobile applications are often one-way where the students learn from content given without opportunites to share their own thoughts or engage in discussion regarding the presented concepts. Moreover, they do not provide ample opportunities for students to discuss important topics such as career aspirations related to optics, which can aid in guiding students towards their desired career path post-graduation. OpticsLearn seeks to address the shortcomings of current optics mobile applications by providing a platform for students to engage in discussions, exchange ideas, and collaborate with one another and discover potential career paths, all through the convenience of a mobile application. This makes learning more fun and gives students the opportunity to learn from others. This software can be used to deliver CZ1013 (Physics for Computing) course to demonstrate the effectiveness of it on students.