Description and evaluation of a hybrid basic optics course

Abstract

In this paper, the authors present and evaluate a partially web‐based Basic Optics course held each year from 2000 to 2003. The course has evolved over the last four years, and we analyse this process based on students’ responses to a paper‐based questionnaire. Their responses show the difficulty they had in adapting to this new environment, in which they are required to actively participate in their learning process. One positive aspect that has been brought to our attention as teachers is that it is necessary to reflect on the learning model we would like to introduce. In other words, the focus has shifted from the course contents to designing effective teaching and learning processes.

Keywords:

• optics learning
• web‐based education
• higher education
• course design

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Dirección General de Investigación of the Ministerio de Ciencia y Tecnologia for financial support (ref: SEC2002‐04254‐C02‐01).