One of the longest and deepest traditions surrounding the University of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Idea signifies a general principle: that education should influence people’s lives beyond the boundaries of the classroom. Synonymous with Wisconsin for more than a century, this “Idea” has become the guiding philosophy of university outreach efforts in Wisconsin and throughout the world.
Whether it’s hosting the longest-running hands-on science museum or introducing new programs like the Wonders of Quantum Physics, our department has a long and proud tradition of fulfilling the Wisconsin Idea through physics outreach. The initiatives below are just a few of the ways in which members of the department engage with the public.
Physics outreach is overseen by the department’s Outreach, Communications, Web Content & Museum committee, which includes: Profs. Victor Brar (chair) and Lu Lu, and staff members Cierra Atkinson, Haddie McLean, Sarah Perdue, and Chad Seys.
The Ingersoll Physics Museum
The Ingersoll Physics Museum exhibits give our guests a hands-on experience of physical concepts ranging from mechanics to modern physics in a demonstrational, kid-friendly environment.
The Wonders of Physics
The Wonders of Physics includes annual in-person shows and a traveling show that comes to you! Shows are fast-paced, engaging, and educational physics programs, filled with demonstrations that help people better understand the physics in the world around them while having fun at the same time.
The Wonders of Quantum Physics
Based on the successful The Wonders of Physics, the new Wonders of Quantum Physics (WoQP) will provide an opportunity for children and adults with non-science backgrounds to explore quantum physics in an inquiry-based format.
Physics Lecture Demos
Explore a video library of physics demos spanning the topics covered in our intro physics courses.
Wonders of Physics Outreach Fellows
The Wonders of Physics Outreach Fellows program accepts PhD students who are interested in and committed to conducting physics outreach.
Wonders of Physics Scholars
The Wonders of Physics Scholars program accepts undergraduates in any major who are interested in and committed to conducting physics outreach.
