Physics/Engineering: insight4me Engineering – Practical Applications of Physics Principles with Dr Gavin Williams, The University of Sheffield

insight4me is a series of subject specific webinars for current Year 12 & 13 students. The sessions support students’ current studies by giving an insight into particular curriculum areas whilst affording students the opportunity to talk to different universities and make informed comparisons about how, in this case, Engineering is taught.

In this insight4me Engineering webinar for schools and colleges, Dr Gavin Williams from The University of Sheffield, within an overall session theme of Practical Applications of Physics Principles, will present:

‘Red LEDs were invented nearly sixty years ago, but it was not until a few years ago that the blue LED arrived. The co-inventors of the blue LED were awarded the 2014 Nobel Prize for Physics, since it was recognised that if you have blue light, then you can make white light. These LEDs have produced a lighting revolution, where they are replacing the less-efficient incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. I will explain the physics behind these tiny devices and also suggest how they may soon be giving us an even better internet connection.’ 

Through the discussion, universities are encouraged to provide an insight into the teaching and learning experience of this topic at university, and compare and contrast how other subject areas across the Engineering spectrum might be treated. Students will gain an insight into how these subjects continue beyond A-levels, T-levels, IB, BTEC and equivalent qualifications.

Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. This means that sessions will continue irrespective of possible school closures.

As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but slides and other resources will be shared after the event, where available.

Suitable for: Year 12 & 13 students (and equivalent) studying, or with a possible interest in studying, Engineering and related disciplines.

Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students may wish to consider the topic and discuss some of the key elements in advance. Students can also think about questions they have about studying Engineering at university level.

The IT Setup: The event will be run on Bluejeans and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the university via a microphone and/or typed comments and questions. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.

Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below: