Practical teaching in secondary level certificated physics: a view from Scotland

Abstract This study reports on a survey conducted in the Scottish physics education context focusing on practical work within National 5 certificated classes. The online survey was open to all practising educators and technicians in Scotland’s secondary schools and further education colleges. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the results, alongside basic thematic analysis of text responses. The results indicate a decline in practical work in the classroom but suggests this is not due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, cost and availability of equipment alongside a perceived lack of time for experimental work are cited as the major difficulties. The resulting recommendations are improvements to the curriculum and support for educators to develop best practice.