Physics education research is a relatively new and rapidly growing area of research within physics departments. The growth of this research represents a realization that that there are unique aspects to the teaching and learning of physics. Understanding these aspects requires a strong understanding of the physics content as well as a strong understanding of educational theory.

Members of the Western Michigan University Physics Education Research Group are interested in many aspects of this research. Faculty research interests include student cognition and conceptual understanding, teacher's beliefs and instructional choices, problem-solving, educational assessment, curriculum development, research methodology, educational change, and epistemological aspects of learning. Ongoing projects exist in many of these areas.

Students can pursue a PhD or MS in physics education research.