A Pedagogical Modular Quantum Photonics Lab

The recent emergence of technologies based on quantum information science has led to a need for revamped quantum education and training that provides hands-on training with industry-relevant equipment and a deep understanding of how quantum mechanics concepts are leveraged by emerging technologies. Traditional courses on quantum mechanics provide minimal training of physical implementations of quantum concepts. We aim to address this gap by delivering a hands-on learning approach that reinforces key concepts and teaches students industry-transferable skills. We will present a quantum photonics-based experimental lab course that is automated, remotely accessible, and consists of several lab modules focusing on different key concepts in QIS. The course has shown to increase student learning in all selected topics of QIS, allowing conclusions to be drawn on effective learning strategies. In addition, the remote access and automation may be used to expand the reach of the learning modules to diverse communities and is a step towards removing the barriers of cost and expertise in the quantum education learning space.