Creating Fearless Physics Thinkers: How Peer Feedback Transforms Classroom Culture

Are your students afraid to take risks in physics discussions? Do they see mistakes as failures rather than stepping stones? Over six years of classroom experimentation, I've developed specific, actionable techniques that transform physics students from passive observers into active participants who eagerly debate concepts with peers. This presentation provides a step-by-step implementation guide for the interventions that most effectively transformed my classroom's culture—moving from teacher-centered instruction to student-led exploration where learners eagerly challenge each other's thinking. You'll receive concrete strategies and supporting materials to build a classroom environment where students feel safe enough to take intellectual risks—a crucial foundation for authentic physics sensemaking. Change the culture of your classroom with approaches that make physics personal, collaborative, and genuinely engaging for every student.