Combining the Two-State System with a Matter-Wave Approach for Teaching Quantum Mechanics in High-School

Abstract

In our teaching approach to quantum mechanics for high schools, we combined a two-state system approach with a matter-wave approach. We developed a simulation of a double well, which has been gradually improved with experience to include all the functionality needed to address the most important concepts of quantum physics. A complementary simulation of a double slit has also been developed to address the introduction of the wave function. A course, based on these simulations has been developed and is currently being tested for the fourth year, still undergoing improvements. Each year a series of formative questions and a pre- and post-test has been administered. We report here how the simulation is used to address the concepts of quantum physics and some preliminary results from the ongoing study of the course.