Interactive teaching methods of optoelectronics for enhancing engagement of under-represented groups

Abstract

An engaging teaching method provides an equal learning opportunity for students on the often-arduous concepts in optoelectronics, which enhances involvement of minorities during a lecture session. Experiment-oriented instruction of topics combined with a dynamic and dialogue-based delivery of the lectures has showed increased participation from the class. Such experiments must be designed based on commonly used optoelectronic devices i.e. LEDs, to provoke interest among the learners. Furthermore, the students have to investigate non-trivial characteristics of such devices, e.g. measuring emission spectrum with a hand-held spectrometer, in groups of two-three. These would ensure a balanced learning opportunity among all the students.