New Perspectives in Science Education
Hands-on Quantum Physics Education: Modular Quantum Experiment for Schools
Canan Gallitschke, ASP, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
Benedict Diederich, openUC2 GmbH/Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Germany)
Juliane Leipold, ASP, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
Theresia Palenta, ASP, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
Cedric Schöppe, ASP, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
Christian Helgert, ASP, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
Johannes Kretzschmar, ASP, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
Abstract
In recent years, quantum physics has gained increasing importance in German upper secondary school curricula, creating a growing need for accessible and practical teaching approaches [1]. To address this challenge, we use a modular experimental setup for Optically Detected Magnetic Resonance (ODMR) [2] in hands-on workshops, allowing students to explore fundamental quantum phenomena through practical experimentation. The ODMR kits are based on the openUC2 modular cube system and are designed to enable students to construct and explore quantum experiments themselves. Their open-source hardware and software allow the system to be adapted and further developed, while the modular design makes it possible to replace or reproduce individual components using accessible fabrication methods such as 3D printing [3]. This creates opportunities for a more sustainable and adaptable approach to experimental quantum education [4]. Our presented workshops combine an interactive introduction to fundamental quantum concepts with hands-on experimentation, where the students work in small groups to assemble, align and operate the experimental setups themselves. The workshops primarily target upper secondary students, although adapted simplified workshops could also be offered to younger ones. This contribution presents both the design of the modular ODMR system and its implementation in educational workshops. It focuses on the technical design of the experimental setup and the practical implementation of the workshops, illustrating an approach to making quantum physics accessible through independent experimentation and thus attractive for potential future STEM students.
Keywords: STEM, quantum physics, hands-on, educational workshops, open source
REFERENCES
[1] Förster, M. and Pospiech, G. "Bridging the theory – practice gap: a university course on quantum information science and transfer to career-oriented physics teaching," EPJ Quantum Technol. 12, 127 (2025).
[2] Stegemann, J. et al., "Modular low-cost 3D printed setup for experiments with NV centers in diamond," Eur. J. Phys. 44 035402 (2023).
[3] Diederich, B. et al., "A versatile and customizable low-cost 3D-printed open standard for microscopic imaging," Nature Commun. 11, 5979 (2020).
[4] Haverkamp, N. et al., "Low Cost ODMR experiments with nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamonds: a didactical approach to theory and experiment," EPJ Quantum Technol. 12, 27 (2025).
