Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Identify and synthesize the key elements of a scientific reference document.
  • Actively engage in the critical analysis of a scientific text.
  • Deliver a structured oral presentation within a set time frame, highlighting the main points and issues of a scientific topic.
  • Establish connections between fundamental physics concepts, technological applications, and societal challenges.
  • Adopt a historical perspective on the evolution of ideas in physics and their influence on the contemporary world.


Goals

This course aims to introduce students to the scientific approach through the critical analysis of selected topics in fundamental or applied physics. Students will explore key concepts, place them in historical and societal context, and present their findings to peers. Emphasis is placed on scientific reasoning, intellectual rigor, and the development of written and oral communication skills.

Beyond conceptual analysis, the course encourages reflection on the evolution of ideas in physics, their impact on modern technologies, and the societal debates they generate.

Content

The course spans two semesters and is structured into four thematic cycles, each centered around an introductory seminar and collaborative student activities.


First Semester (Q1)

Each seminar is followed by group work involving:

  •   In-depth reading of reference documents.
  •   Formulation of a comprehension question, assessed for quality and relevance by the instructors.
  •   Answering questions posed by peers, also subject to evaluation.
  •   A collective synthesis led by the instructors to structure and enrich the discussion.


Second Semester (Q2)

Each seminar is followed by group work involving:

  •   Analysis of complementary resources.
  •   Writing a summary and delivering an oral presentation to the other groups.
  •   A collective discussion enriched by instructor input, particularly on the physical concepts addressed.


Table of contents

The four seminars address the following themes:

  •   Historical perspectives on the concept of time
  •   Introduction to quantum physics
  •   Climate change and atmospheric physics
  •   Nuclear physics and large-scale energy production


Teaching methods

This course adopts an active learning methodology, centered on thematic seminars and collaborative analysis activities. It fosters autonomy, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate scientific knowledge effectively.

Assessment method

The course is based on continuous assessment throughout the academic year. Attendance is mandatory: unjustified absences will result in a penalty applied through a presence factor.


First Semester (Q1)

Activities related to the first two seminars are each graded out of 10 points.

The final Q1 grade is the sum of these two scores, adjusted by the presence factor.

No exam is scheduled at the end of Q1.

The Q1 grade cannot be remediated in Q2.


Second Semester (Q2)

Activities related to the third and fourth seminars are also graded out of 10 points.

These scores are likewise adjusted by the Q2 presence factor.

No exam is scheduled at the end of Q2.

The overall annual grade is the arithmetic average of the Q1 and Q2 continuous assessments.


Third Session (Q3)

For students required to attend the August session, an oral exam will be held based on one of the group projects completed during the year.

The final Q3 grade is calculated as follows:

  • 50% for the continuous assessment (Q1 & Q2)
  • 50% fro the oral exam (Q3)


Sources, references and any support material

Reference documents will be provided during each seminar.

Language of instruction

French
Training Study programme Block Credits Mandatory
Bachelor in Physics Standard 0 3
Bachelor in Physics Standard 1 3