International Commission on Physics Education (ICPE) Newsletter, Issue 32

This April 1996 issue explores the balance between qualitative and quantitative thinking in physics education, with Eric Mazur emphasizing the need for conceptual understanding over rote problem-solving. A guest editorial by Paul Black discusses global trends in science education reform, highlighting shifts toward practical, real-world contexts and the challenges of implementing change in classrooms. The newsletter introduces the EUPEN initiative to improve comparability and quality in European physics education and announces major conferences, including the International Conference on Undergraduate Physics Education and GIREP 96. Additional sections cover innovative teaching methods, technology integration, and upcoming events worldwide.