Transforming Physics Learning via Research and Practice

The chapter "Open inquiry in undergraduate lab courses" is available open access under the Creative Commons License CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 via link.springer.com. This book brings together a carefully curated selection of peer-reviewed contributions on innovation in physics education, reflecting the evolving challenges and opportunities of a rapidly advancing discipline. Drawn from the 2025 GIREP-EPEC conference, this book presents 20 outstanding papers chosen through a rigorous double-blind review process from over 100 submissions. As physics expands into areas such as active matter, climate modelling, and quantum computing, the demands placed on education continue to grow. This book addresses these challenges by highlighting research-driven approaches to teaching and learning that foster critical thinking, creativity, and higher-order problem-solving skills. This book is organized into four thematic sections: contemporary topics in physics education, showcasing emerging areas and the interplay between mathematics and physics; transforming physics learning through research and practice, including innovative methodologies such as open inquiry and interactive tools; promoting cognition and learning, with a focus on effective pedagogical strategies; and identity and belonging in physics, addressing diversity and inclusion within the field. Combining theoretical insights with practical applications, this book serves as a valuable resource for physics educators, researchers, and policymakers. It underscores the importance of collaboration within the Physics Education Research community and offers concrete strategies to enhance teaching and learning in diverse contexts, supporting the development of the next generation of physicists.