Modular Curriculum Approach (MCA) for teaching of introductory physics: Tablet PCs and flexible instructional space to stimulate active learning

Modular Curriculum Approach is an innovative model designed at McMurry University and adopted for teaching of introductory physics courses. In MCA, traditional lab/lecture structure is converted into a system of flexible instructional modules, with lecture, lab, and discussion being merged into one technologically and collaboratively rich experience. Different elements are integrated with Tablet PCs as a single unifying platform to improve continuity among module components. A technology suite incorporated with tablets includes: Physlets, tablet-adapted personal response systems, data acquisition systems, and tablet-based note-taking tools. The MCA has been further reinforced by creating a new instructional space with movable partitions, allowing for easy transformation between lecture and lab modes. The space is supportive of small peer- group activities with easy-to-reconfigure table clusters, multiple white and black board surfaces, multiple TVs and projection screens.