Gymnasiets laborationsundervisning i fysik: mellan tradition och ändrade styrdokument

Experiments have a long tradition in physics teaching and there are many examples of classical school experiments. At the same time laboratory teaching is affected by curriculum changes and technological development. In this study experienced teachers at three different upper secondary schools discuss their laboratory teaching. The analysis is based on the logic of events. The study provides insight into factors affecting teachers’ teaching and how classical experiments are adapted and challenged by new conditions. The results indicate that tradition is a stronger factor of influence than policy documents, in particular when very limited time is allowed for professional development.