Andrew Robinson

Dr. Andrew Robinson is a Contract Instructor in the Department of Physics at Carleton University, part of the Faculty of Science. He holds a B.Sc. (1983), M.Sc. (1984) from the University of Bristol, and a Ph.D. (1988) in Physical Chemistry from the University of Bath. A Chartered Physicist (CPhys) and Member of the Institute of Physics (MInstP), his career shifted from Chemical Physics and bioinformatics programming to Physics Education. His research focuses on innovative teaching methods, particularly for non-specialists, including the XJS Scientia project developing JavaScript-based simulations for physics education. He has won teaching awards in 2012 and 2014 and leads a grant-funded initiative to create interactive learning tools. He employs undergraduate research assistants but does not supervise graduate students.

• Education:
  • B.Sc. Chemical Physics, University of Bristol, 1983
  • M.Sc. Surface Chemistry and Colloid Science, University of Bristol, 1984
  • Ph.D. Physical Chemistry, University of Bath, 1988
• Professional Affiliations: CPhys, MInstP

His simulations, such as LC Circuit Oscillations and Charged Particles in Fields, emphasize self-directed learning through interactive modules. He integrates JavaScript and HTML into educational tools, reflecting his background in bioinformatics programming. Current projects include expanding simulations for topics like LCR circuits and simple harmonic motion.

• Awards:
  • 2014 Faculty of Science Excellence in Teaching Award
  • 2012 Faculty of Science Excellence in Teaching Award

His work bridges disciplinary expertise (surface science, molecular biology) with pedagogical innovation. The XJS Scientia initiative, licensed under Creative Commons, underscores his commitment to open educational resources.