A conference for and by all teachers of Physics 20 February | Swinburne University of Technology and online
PHYSCON 2026
Teaching with Intelligence
A conference for and by all teachers of Physics 20 February | Swinburne University of Technology and online
PHYSCON 2026
Teaching with Intelligence
A conference for and by all teachers of Physics 20 February | Swinburne University of Technology and online
PHYSCON 2026
Teaching with Intelligence
A conference for and by all teachers of Physics 20 February | Swinburne University of Technology and online
PHYSCON 2026 is a hybrid event proudly presented by the VicPhysics Teachers’ Network with the support of Swinburne University of Technology on Friday 20 February, 2025.
Supported by
PHYSCON 2026 is an innovative and exciting hybrid professional development event for Victorian secondary school Physics teachers featuring
live-streamed keynote addresses on critical current issues from Prof Mehdi Seyedmahmoudian, Director of the Siemens Swinburne Energy Transition Hub at Swinburne University of Technology, on the future of photovoltaics and energy sustainability and from Prof Andrew Greentree from RMIT on challenges and opportunities posed by AI in Physics.
round table discussion focussed on AI in classroom practice
3 sessions of workshops in person and online, with the majority of workshops livestreamed
access to exhibitors
networking opportunities over morning tea, lunch and post-conference drinks
VCAA Update
review of the Nov 2025 exam
laboratory tours of cutting-edge facilities and visits to the Virtual Reality space
Saturday Morning Taster of the Excursion to the Australian Synchrotron
A Medical Physics In-Service at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne
Pricing (receive a $30 ‘early-bird’ discount if paid in full by December 19, 2025)
Fees (inc GST)
VicPhysics Member Pricing
Subscriber / Non-Member
Individual
School
Student / Retired
Standard
In person
$350
$375
$195
$395
Online
$175
$200
$140
$220
Program
PHYSCON 2026 offers both in person and online only registration options.
In person registration includes in person-only and hybrid (live-streamed) sessions, as well as access to all recorded sessions post conference. Online registration includes of all the hybrid sessions, as well as access to all recorded sessions post conference.
The opportunity for Q & A and interaction with presenters will be available at all in person and live-streamed sessions.
Challenges and opportunities posed by AI in Physics
Biography
Prof Greentree is a theoretical physicist, specialising in various aspects of quantum physics. He is a Chief Investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, an ARC Future Fellow, and a former RMIT Vice Chancellor’s Senior Fellow. Andy Greentree joined RMIT in 2012 as a Vice Chancellor’s Senior Research Fellow. Since then he has applied his skills to the creation of new diamond hybrid materials, developing a new approach to magnetometry with diamond, new techniques for optical nanoscopy, and helped to demonstrate the ability of bees to perform elementary mathematics. His roles at RMIT include teaching and research. He is also a HDR coordinator for Physics a member of the Research Integrity Advisor Network, and is involved in the RMIT’s ERA submission.
9.45am
Round table discussion session
10:30am
Morning tea
11:15am
VCAA Update
11.30am
Workshop session A
A1 hybrid Matthew Norman
Biography
Matthew Norman has been teaching physics for nearly 20 years and is currently at Richmond High School. Prior to that he did research and has published papers in the field of materials science.
Abstract
We all know that a good demonstration can enhance learning, connect the dots and provide teachable moments. This presentation is a chance to look at some well known as well as some more obscure demonstrations that can be used in class to illustrate, engage and inspire. Content from all four VCE units will be covered. There will be a chance to discuss successful demonstrations and videos of phenomena you have used in class, so bring along some ideas.
Richmond High School
Lesson Starters and Discussion Sparkers
A2 hybrid Anthony Simcox & Toni Little
Quantum Victoria
Applied physics through video games
Biography
Quantum Victoria is a Department of Education STEM centre open to all Victorian schools as an excursion destination. We provide daily programs for P-12 students. Our programs allow students to experience STEM concepts in an engaging environment using equipment and resources they may not have access to in their normal classrooms.
Abstract
Using tracker video analysis software to determine how the physics of a video game (Angry Birds) compares to real world physics. We capture video game play, and then use tracker software to analyse the horizontal and vertical motion to analyse physics concepts like – Compliance with laws of motion, Estimating gravity, Transfer of energy, Conservation of momentum, and other physics concepts. Using video game play and then asking students to think about the scientific concepts involved allows us to encourage students to explore the scientific principles of their world in a fun and engaging way.
A3 hybrid Theo Hughes
Cornish College
Examining the de Broglie Relation
Biography
Abstract
I’m going to connect the de Broglie relation to other parts of the VCE course (and some things just beyond the VCE course) to help better understand how it fits into VCE physics, physics in general, and the history of physics.
A4 hybrid Robert Hollow
CSIRO, Space and Astronomy
Astronomy, a Gateway Science into STEM Using Real Data
Biography
Robert is Education Manager at CSIRO’s Space & Astronomy research unit. He leads the PULSE@Parkes program for high school students and coordinates S&A’s undergraduate and postgraduate student programs. He has extensive experience in high school teaching, curriculum development and astronomy education. His research interests are in student investigations in astronomy with real data and astronomy curriculum globally. Robert is a Life Member of STANSW. He chairs the National Astronomy Education Coordinator team for the IAU’s Office of Astronomy Education and heads the Education Panel for the Astronomical Society of Australia’s Eclipse Working Group for the 2028 total solar eclipse.
Abstract
Astronomy can be regarded as a Gateway Science that inspires students and the public into STEM pathways. A strength is that it is a discipline in which real scientific data is freely and easily accessible, making it an ideal area for first-hand and second-hand student investigations. This workshop introduces participants to a range of Australian and international datasets, where to access and how to use them to engage and challenge students. Topics from exoplanets, pulsars and galaxy classification are explored, with key databases and science tools being identified. Participants will work through examples of some datasets and use online tools for data analysis that they can readily implement in their classrooms. Participants will need to bring a device to work on.
A5 Colin Hopkins & Adrian Lam
Retired Senior Teacher of Physics
Physics Formative Assessment Tasks (with AI)
Biography
Colin is a happily retired Physics teacher. After teaching for 40 years in the state system, he retired from Bialik College as Head of Science, 10 years ago. During his career Colin won the Victorian Educational Excellence Award for Curriculum Innovation and was a finalist for the Outstanding Secondary Teacher Award. He has maintained his involvement and was awarded an OAM for services to Physics education across Victoria.
Adrian is a Physics and Maths trained teacher currently conducting research and tutoring undergraduate students at La Trobe University. He has experience teaching in government and private sectors across primary and secondary levels, and his research focuses on the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. Adrian loves learning new things and is always looking for ways to improve educational experiences. His most recent pursuits have taken him through professional development courses such as Cert IV in Auslan and Cert IV in Cyber Security. He is happy to be back again after an enjoyable presentation at the 2025 PHYSCON
Abstract
Many teachers use past examination papers as their preferred method of consolidation throughout the year. Does research suggest ideas and strategies to improve effectiveness? Can the use of Zone of Proximal Development and incorporating AI be integrated into effective teaching and learning protocols to enhance learning? We have developed a system where AI can be used to grade student written responses, and the data is used to inform teaching. We are actively looking for teachers to trial the materials in class to further develop the resources. Copious digital resources, in the form of over 3000 VCAA exam questions with solutions and analysis processes will be shared.
A6 hybrid Dan O’Keeffe
Retired Senior Teacher of Physics
Learnings from the Nov 2025 Physics Exam
Biography
In the past Dan has had a number of roles in the exam setting and marking processes, and currently contributes to Vicphysics’ exam solutions and its exam review which is submitted to VCAA.
Abstract
This session will focus on the questions that were not done well, considering explanations and suggesting strategies to improve the outcome. Questions from previous years will also be referenced.
A7 hybrid Merryn Dawborn-Gundlach
University of Melbourne
Using Rubrics to mark the Unit 4 Scientific Poster
Biography
Merryn is a senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne. She teaches in the Master of Teaching (Secondary) course in the Faculty of Education and is active in developing initial teacher education in Victoria, as coordinator of the Master of Teaching (Secondary) Internship course, a position which supports change of career teachers as interns in schools and in her position as Physics Learning Area Coordinator. Merryn’s research interests focus on transition and retention of early career teachers, developing scientific reasoning competencies of pre-service science teachers, investigating the support required by change of career teachers, and supporting Vocational Education and Training Teachers and out of field Physics teachers in Australian schools. Prior to her current position, Merryn taught Mathematics, Physics and Science in government, independent, Catholic and faith schools in Victoria, NSW and the USA, including teaching in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. She has a strong interest in sharing her passion for using rubrics to assess student work.
Abstract
A8 hybrid Yuriy Verkhatsky
Bialik College
Practical work in teaching Unit 1 electricity
Biography
Yuriy Verkhatsky has taught physics, mathematics, chemistry and science since 1989, both in Australia and overseas. His students have been winners of the Australian Physics Olympiad, Australian Math Competition and the like, and they consistently achieve results significantly higher when compared with state averages. Yuriy has also worked in science research with his main area of interest being the interaction of electromagnetic and sound waves in solids as well as being an electronic engineer and author of articles and patents. In addtion, some devices designed by Yuriy were used in the space stations.
Abstract
Physics is a practical science, and hands-on experimentation is essential for developing a deep understanding of its concepts. The Electricity area of study in Unit 1 offers rich opportunities for practical work — not only to explore electrical principles, but also to build foundational scientific skills such as graphing, analysing data, and identifying uncertainties. In this presentation, we will explore a sequence of practical activities that guide students from constructing simple circuits to conducting more complex investigations, including experiments with diodes and control circuits. This progression helps students develop both conceptual understanding and investigative competence, preparing them for extended investigations later in the course.
A9 hybrid Colin Chapman
Caroline Chisholm Catholic College
Foregrounding Instrumentation to Deepen Learning
Biography
Colin Chapman most recently worked in Bhutan with teachers from the South Asian region. The programme, under the auspices of CERN [European Organization for Nuclear Research] and SASEP [South Asian Science Education Programme], was focused on Instrumentation, Computation and Mathematics. A passion for democratising science and promoting it as a community practice has been important to Colin’s learning design.
Abstract
By building science instrumentation, we can gain an understanding their capabilities and limitations, providing the possibility of deeper insights into the nature of the phenomena under investigation. There are two important trends in the use of instrumentation in science, both useful. The black box approach is represented by self-contained instrument suites that allow a variety of sensors to be implemented, information to be processed and data to be displayed. Black box approaches are important for developing agile approaches to science inquiry. Multiple trials may be conducted rapidly to inform meaningful improvements to experimental design. An experiment may be critiqued, redesigned and implemented multiple times to improve outcomes with respect to validity, precision and accuracy. The instrument is not necessarily open for critique. The white box approach is represented by custom made, bespoke instruments. They are scratch built from discrete components. White box approaches are important for gaining an understanding of how the instrument collects the information, conditions it and processes it. An experiment may be critiqued from the perspective of the instrument itself. The instrument is open for critique. In this workshop we will build a number of white box instruments using a simple voltage divider circuit, interfaced with a microcontroller, that allows the user to build sensor assemblies to measure a range of phenomena. We will explore questioning strategies that bring the instrumentation into the experimental critique.
A10 hybrid Mark Judd
Lavalla Catholic College, Traralgon
Experience CERN: Bringing Particle Physics to Life in Your Classroom
Biography
Mark is a passionate Physics and Science educator with over 30 years of teaching experience. He brings complex scientific ideas to life through engaging, real-world learning and a creative teaching style. With a strong interest in connecting classroom physics to cutting-edge research, he recently participated in the 2025 CERN International High School Teachers (HST) Program. Through his social media channel “Juddy Productions,” he shares innovative teaching ideas, experiments, and insights to inspire educators and learners across Australia and beyond.
Abstract
Ever wondered what it’s like to stand above the world’s most powerful particle accelerator? Join me as I share my experience from the 2025 CERN International High School Teachers (HST) Program — a two-week, mind-expanding journey into the heart of modern physics. Discover what goes on behind the scenes at the Large Hadron Collider, explore the ATLAS and CMS detectors, and hear how world-leading physicists are uncovering the building blocks of our universe. I’ll connect these incredible insights directly to the VCE Physics curriculum and present inquiry-based learning resources you can use in your own classroom. I will also cover how to apply for the program and access ANSTO funding — making this extraordinary professional experience not just possible, but fully supported. If you’ve ever dreamed of representing Australia on the global science stage — with your travel, accommodation, and meals all covered — come along and find out how you can be part of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at CERN.
A11 in person only Matt Dodds
Glen Innes High School
Using the mDetect Muon Detector in the Classroom
Biography
Abstract
Come and get hands on with the EduMod Muon Detector from mDetect. This device allows you and your students to detect Muon’s in your classroom and visualise them live on a digital oscilloscope. Sample lesson plans will also be on hand to show you how easily this device can be incorporated into the classroom lessons on relativity. The mDetect network is live in 2026 and we need schools sign up and help us create the worlds biggest Muon Detector Network.
A12 in person only Matthew Bailes
Swinburne University of Technology
Virtual Reality Experience: A Glimpse into the Future of Physics Education
Biography
Abstract
Step into the future of interactive learning with a prototype VR experience in AMDC801 at Swinburne University. The session will feature OzGrav’s Virtual Universe—a captivating journey through space and time, exploring gravitational waves, black holes, and other wonders of the cosmos. Tailored for secondary school educators, this hands-on demonstration showcases how VR can transform physics education, offering an engaging and modern approach to teaching complex concepts.
12:30pm
Lunch
13.15pm
Workshop session B
B1 hybrid Dino Cevolatti and Stuart Bird
DIRTSCAN – A Scaffolded Problem- Solving Strategy
A1 Hybrid Colin Hopkins OAM
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B2 hybrid Andrew Hansen
The motion of planets around the sun
A2 Hybrid Colin Hopkins OAM
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B3 hybrid David Wood
Modernising Physics Year 7 to 10: Why, what, how
A3 Hybrid Deepa Jain
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B4 hybrid Spiro Liacos
Electromagnetic Radiation and Thermal Energy: The Fundamentals!
A4 live only Paul Butler
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B5 hybrid Rachael Gore
AI for Learning
A5 Hybrid Claire Rollinston
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B6 hybrid Emma Love and Michael Vuong
Engaging Exam Revision
A5 live only Jane Coyle
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B7 hybrid Catherine Bellair
How to write SACs for the new study design: Tips from a failed audit
A6 live only Catherine Bellair
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B8 hybrid Hernan Alonso, Melissa Co and Michael Osprey
Streamlined and Scalable: Structuring the Physics Scientific Investigation for Large Cohorts
A7 Hybrid Man Lam
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B9 hybrid Campbell Wilson and Loukia Andrews
Constructing and Analysing Motors for Assessment
A5 Hybrid Claire Rollinston
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B10 hybrid Penny Hale and Lachlan McGinness
A5 live only Jane Coyle
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Developing a National competition for Astrophysics and Astronomy Olympiads
B11 hybrid Jackie Bondell and Diana Haikal
A6 Hybrid Catherine Bellair
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Ripples in Space-Time: New Discoveries and Teaching Tools for Physics Classrooms
B12 in person only Matthew Bailes
Virtual Reality Experience: A Glimpse into the Future of Physics Education
A7 live only Man Lam
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B13 VSEC hybrid
A7 live only Man Lam
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14.15pm
Workshop session C
C1 hybrid Colin Hopkins OAM
Tips and hints for beginning teachers and teachers new to Physicshers
A1 Hybrid Colin Hopkins OAM
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C2 hybrid David Wood
Climate Science and the Carbon and Water Cycles – empowering students
A2 Hybrid Colin Hopkins OAM
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C3 hybrid Julie Mulholland and Bridget Murphy
A new perspective on teaching nuclear physics
A3 Hybrid Deepa Jain
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C4 hybrid Sandor Kazi
Understanding Special Relativity using Position – Time Graphs
A4 live only Paul Butler
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C5 hybrid Stuart Fankhauser
Leading the Target: Anticipating the Future of Teaching and Learning with AI
A5 Hybrid Claire Rollinston
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C6 hybrid Dan O’Keeffe OAM
Learnings from the Nov 2025 Physics Exam
A5 live only Jane Coyle
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C7 hybrid Adele Hudson and Ashleigh Holland
Formative feedback in physics – a mix of low and high tech tools
A6 live only Catherine Bellair
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C8 in person only Matt Dodds
Teaching Projectile Motion with Hot Wheels Cars and Air Rockets!
A6 live only Catherine Bellair
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C9 hybrid Paul Butler
Space weather – detecting particles from space
A5 Hybrid Claire Rollinston
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C10 hybrid Michael Fitzgerald, Andrew Yen and Saeed Salimpour
Bringing the Universe in your Teaching
A5 live only Jane Coyle
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C11 – session cancelled. Jacob Strickland will be onsite as an exhibitor for those interested in connecting
Lenz’s Law
A6 Hybrid Catherine Bellair
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C12 in person only Francis Bloch
A window into future physics
A7 live only Man Lam
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3.10pm
Closing keynote
4.00pm
Post conference drinks
Meet our speakers
Dr Hernan Alonso
Balwyn High School
Biography
Dr Hernan Alonso is a Learning Specialist for High Ability Learners at Balwyn High School, bringing expertise in Physics and Chemistry. His experience scaffolding inquiry-based learning for diverse student cohorts informs his practical approach to the Scientific Investigation. Mr Michael Opray is a Learning Specialist for Numeracy at Balwyn High School with extensive teaching experience spanning Physics and Specialist Mathematics. With experience teaching IB Physics in Germany, he is passionate about hands-on and technology-enhanced learning. Ms Melissa Co teaches Physics and Mathematics at Balwyn High School. Through her Careers Education background and design thinking approach, she supports students in developing innovative and authentic pathways in science and beyond. Together, they have collaboratively refined the practical investigation for large cohorts while maintaining authenticity and rigor at one of Victoria’s largest schools.
Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Claire Rollinstone
The Mac.Robertson Girls High School
Claire Rollinstone
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Frequently asked questions
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