Physics - programme subject in programmes for specialization in general studies (FYS1-01)

Man has always been fascinated by nature and obsessed with understanding it. Through experiments, observations and theoretical work, physicists have come a long way in discovering the basic principles and laws that explain and predict phenomena in nature and the universe.

The programme subject Physics shall help pupils understand nature, technology and phenomena in everyday life. It serves as a basis for applying scientific knowledge in different contexts, from practical everyday situations to decisions that affect society, nature and the environment. The programme subject gives an introduction to concepts, symbols and language, and links theory and arithmetical calculations with observations and practical laboratory work. The programme subject shall help demonstrate how mathematics is used in physics and how it is used to model reality. In addition, the programme subject shall help create an awareness that physics is part of our cultural heritage and that the subject must be viewed in a historical perspective.

The programme subject shall help develop a critical approach to experimentation and postulations and provide training in how to make a case for solutions to physics problems. The course will thus strengthen pupils’ ability to differentiate between scientifically-based knowledge and knowledge not based on scientific methods. The programme subject shall provide an understanding of subject-specific problems and of processes that result in greater insight, which is an important springboard for further studies in higher education and for lifelong learning. In this way, physics as a programme subject shall help provide society with a skilled workforce, and promote innovation and development for the benefit of industry and society. At the same time, teaching in the subject shall emphasize the general educative aspects of physics.

The programme subject shall provide the foundation for creativity, critical acumen and methodological insight in physics studies. The development of skills and competence calls for practical as well as theoretical work in the programme subject.