A Visual and Intuitive Approach to Teaching and Learning Concepts in Wave Theory

Effective science communicators are gifted in their capacity to take seemingly complicated and abstract subjects and present them in clear, engaging, and intuitive ways. Genuine learning is not achieved through memorization of formulas and rules, for even if a student is able to recite their textbook or teacher verbatim, the underlying logic and physical significance of what they are repeating may still be lost to them. Thus, educators must evaluate their teaching methods as well as the content to be covered in such a way that best serves their students. However, as circumstances differ from class to class and student to student, educators should also be aware that no one approaches to learning fits all. Teaching should also be adapted to meet different styles of learning. It is therefore the purpose of this paper to present a visual and intuitive approach to teaching wave physics. Examples and analogies taken from everyday life are used to explain fundamental concepts, with the language that is used meant to make things as easy to visualize as possible. Some ‘exotic’ topics are also included, either to give some historical context of the physics, or if it relates to an aspect of waves yet to be discussed. Inclusion of extra information, such as stories and quotes by scientists, is meant to make the subjects of physics seem more socially relevant to students.