Abstract: A common perspective in physics education research is the intertwining nature of research and curriculum development. I provide several examples of how the combination of researching the teaching and learning of physics and designing and implementing curriculum aimed at improving student understanding strengthens and complements each other. A common thread in these examples is the importance of engaging students in active learning. I discuss the importance of fostering this engagement, various strategies for doing so, and the challenges that both researchers and educators often face, especially in the modern teaching era.

Bio Paul completed his PhD at the University of Washington in 2015, studying student understanding of quantum mechanics. He has worked at Oregon State University, both as a postdoctoral scholar and as an instructor, since 2016, working with the OSUPER group.