Abstract

In this communication we will present new results and developments of a pedagogical experiment undertaken, since 1995, within the classes of Image Processing and Fiber Optics of the Applied Physics undergraduate course of the Physics Department of the University of Minho. The simple research works undertaken by the students within the classes’ frame over last three years will be briefly discussed and preliminary conclusion drawn. This "Learning by research" project relies on a major statement: the learning process requires always an active critical participation of the students. This is especially true for science and technology students. Thus to the students is given almost entire liberty and responsibility even in the process of choosing and defining the research to be undertaken. We limited our selves to assess the development of the project orienting them and point out different or pertinent points of view when strictly necessary.

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