Physicists in a Changing World

Historically physicists have opened up several interdisciplinary areas such as biomechanics, geophysics and materials science, to name a few, as well as several aspects of science education.

In fact, Physics education has very often resulted in producing individuals able to recognize regularities, causes and symmetries that appear in complex events.

In recent times, external pressures have diverted physics faculty into specialized research fields, to the detriment of significant, quality teaching.

Thus, to the extent that this is true, physics is often presented as a "finished" and unexciting subject, without fostering understanding, reflection and discussion with little relevance to students’ lives.

Enrollment in physics courses has decreased worldwide and simultaneously the output of competent physicists and physics teachers has been insufficient.

Although the way physics is being taught is certainly not the only reason for this situation to exist, it certainly is an important contribution to the problem.

The VII IAC, taking into account the necessary competencies a physicist should have —as listed below (See 6)—recommends:

1. That physics departments should strongly support their faculty and students in the development of a strong, solid, flexible and open curriculum, capable of being adapted to fulfill the local needs of countries and, even, regions within countries.
2. That physics departments should transmit to all its members the importance of raising the interest in physics by the community, through the permanent participation at faculty and students alike.
3. That physics departments should strive to support the activities delineated in (2), above for the betterment of its students.
4. That physics departments foster the continuing education of their faculty by supporting activities such as attending workshops and conferences as well as hosting such types of events.
5. That departments of physics at Schools and Universities that offer Master and PhD degrees shall include, among its specialties, courses of study and proyects in Physics Education. (Floor motion by Alejandro Gonzáles of Mexico)
6. That the documents presented by Marco Antonio Moreira of Brazil regarding General Skills, Essential Competencies and Experiences be considered as having general validity for the preparation of qualified physicists.

Coordinator: Teodoro Halpern, USA

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