SAIP2025

The role of laboratory demonstrators in the learning and understanding of physics and chemistry concepts

Not scheduled

1h

Solomon Mahlangu House (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg)

Oral Presentation Track E - Physics for Development, Education and Outreach Physics for Development, Education and Outreach

Speaker

Prof. Buyisiwe Sondezi (Rare Earth-Based Oxides and Nano Group, Department of Physics, University of Johannesburg, Cnr Kingsway Avenue and University Road, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa)

Description

It is almost a common practice in institutions of higher learning that most experimental modules are well executed and understood by students if laboratory demonstrators are actively involved. This involvement is designed to assist students in understanding the practical aspects of their experiments before and during the laboratory session. This work reports on the vital and multifaceted role of laboratory demonstrators at the South African university in making learning effective for the students attending physics and chemistry practical sessions. The roles extend beyond the supervision of practical sessions. Demonstrators serve as key intermediaries between theory and experimental practices, assisting students to grasp abstract concepts through hands-on engagement.