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Smart Devices for Physics Teachers

Singapore is well on its journey to become a Smart Nation seeking to leverage data for planning a modern and liveable urban environment. Quality decision making can only be made if there is an understanding of how data is derived from sensors; in particular, what are the device physics governing the operation of these sensors. In this course, participants will learn the working principles of several important smart devices that are already embedded in everyday life, from traffic control sensors to devices built into modern cell phones, and also emerging ones based on quantum technologies. Participants will also learn how to use these stories, as well as sensors in smart phones, to promote curiosity-driven and authentic learning of selected physics topics, engaging students to appreciate the emerging Internet-of-Things revolution.

Course Outline

Introduction to Smart Devices Physics
In this session, the participants will be given an introduction to various smart devices and the discussion will revolve around the physics of the devices, and how this defines the operation of the devices. The link between modern sensors and the O-level/A-Level Physics syllabus will be highlighted. Some possible topics to be covered are provided in the table below.
Applications Physics Used
  • Traffic Loops
  • How to keep the city moving
  • Magnetic Flux
  • Laws of electromagnetic induction
  • Light Commands
  • How smart sensors pick up more than sound, and why this is a security risk
  • Oscillation and waves
  • Current of Electricity
  • DC circuits
  • Accelerometers
  • How do smart devices know you are moving faster or slower?
  • Introduction to the PhyPhox app
  • Gravitational field
  • Gravitational potential
  • DC circuits
  • Quantum detectors
  • Some sensors of the future
  • Energy of a photon
  • Photoelectric effect
  • Wave-particle duality
  • Diffraction

Course Lecturer Profile

Professor Sow Chorng Haur received his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago. He is the former Head of Department of Physics and Vice Dean (Outreach & Admissions) at the Faculty of Science. He has authored and co-authored many papers in the field of nanoscience and nanomaterials. He has a keen interest in developing various teaching methods to enhance students’ learning experiences. Prof Sow received many teaching awards, including the NUS Outstanding Educator Award (2008). He has travelled extensively to share his passion in teaching physics, especially with innovative science demonstrations.

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