An analysis of demonstration materials in quantum physics education

The development and study of demonstration materials (DM) in quantum physics (QP) education has gained increasing attention in research, leading to a diverse range of approaches. In this scoping review, we examine 302 scientific publications on DM for QP education, categorising them by DM type and QP topics. We analyse the progression of research output from 2000 to 2023, highlighting different strategies in digital and haptic DM, as well as pedagogical considerations and gaps. We also performed an evaluation of the research field, assessing educational goals and challenges, methodological approaches, implementation strategies, and the reported effectiveness of DM.

Our analysis reveals a growing, yet uneven, distribution of DM across QP topics, an increased emphasis on quantum technology applications, and varying quality in studies on learning outcomes. While some DM are well established, others remain underexplored, particularly: DM that connect QP topics to a wide range of real world contexts, integrating multiple DM types and representations, and adapting materials for different audiences. We conclude by highlighting the critical need for “educational readiness” of DM. To advance QP education, future research must therefore focus on the effective integration of DM into practice, supported by comprehensive reporting on design principles, functionality, and implementation.