Fostering Curricular Conversations Around On-Ramps Into Physics

Thinking about curricular on-ramps is crucial for physics departments looking to actively support students with diverse academic backgrounds and career interests. Introductory physics often functions as a one-size fits all introduction to classical (centuries-old) topics rather than a welcoming entry point that seems relevant to the current job market. Strategically designing legible pathways ensures that all students, regardless of their prior preparation or career interests, have the opportunity to succeed. By moving beyond a one-size-fits-all on-ramp, departments can foster a more inclusive and accessible physics community, signaling from day one that the field is open and relevant to a broader range of students and future careers.

This cohort will support participants in exploring assumptions around introductory physics within their institutional context and identify relevant stakeholders to engage in conversations to intentionally build systems-level change efforts, improve department climate, and navigate internal resistance to modernizing introductory courses. Questions participants might consider include:

• Are pathways clear and welcoming to a student looking at it on paper?
• Do pathways actively manage variation in student preparation?
• Do pathways build or signal skills relevant to a modern job market?
• Do instructional approaches for pathways acknowledge and adjust for the presence of AI?

The cohort sessions will be on Fridays, April 9, April 16, April 23, and April 30, 2027, from 1- 2:15 p.m. ET each day.

Core competencies:

• Recruitment and retention strategies
• Navigating change/resistance
• Student, faculty, or staff success and belonging