Kate Wilson

Associate Professor Kate Wilson is an Education Focussed academic at the School of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of New South Wales (UNSW), specifically at the Australian Defence Force Academy campus in Canberra. She is also a member of the UNSW Scientia Education Academy.

Education:

• PhD (Physics), Monash University
• BSc. Hons, Monash University
• Grad Dip Ed. (teaching), University of Canberra

Research Focus:

While maintaining background knowledge in computational physics and condensed matter physics, Professor Wilson's primary research centers on student learning experiences in physics education. Her work specifically addresses learning of physics concepts, the critical transition period from school to university education, identification and support strategies for "at risk" students, and gender differences in assessment performance. Her research approach combines theoretical understanding with practical classroom application.

Professional Contributions:

She has coauthored an undergraduate physics textbook and four high school physics textbooks, with additional contributions to chemistry and biology educational materials. Her leadership includes serving as past director of the Australian Science Olympiads Physics Program and membership in the Sydney University Physics Education Research group, where she contributed to the Workshop Tutorial Project. She has participated in three discipline-based ALTC/Carrick/CUTSD funded projects examining physics education across Australian Universities.

Awards:

• Senior Fellow, Higher Education Academy

Teaching Responsibilities:

Professor Wilson convenes and teaches Engineering Mechanics (ZEIT1503) at UNSW Canberra, applying her research expertise directly to classroom instruction.