The Benefits and Challenges of a Quantum Computing Concept Inventory

TL;DR

This paper discusses the development of a Quantum Computing Concept Inventory to improve education and workforce readiness, highlighting the challenges of creating accessible, valid assessment tools for complex quantum concepts.

Contribution

It presents an initial exploration of key concepts and challenges in creating a quantum computing concept inventory for educational purposes.

Findings

Identified the need for a quantum computing concept inventory.

Highlighted the importance of non-mathematical content.

Outlined challenges in developing accessible, valid questions.

Abstract

A Quantum Computing Concept Inventory is needed for the acceleration of uptake of best practice in quantum computing education required to support the quantum computing workforce for the next two decades. Eight experts in quantum computing, quantum ommunication or quantum sensing were interviewed to determine if there is substantial non-mathematical content to warrant such an inventory and determine a preliminary list of key concepts that should be included in such an inventory. Developing such an inventory is a challenging task requiring significant international 'buy-in' and creativity to produce jargon-free valid questions which are accessible to students who are yet to study quantum mechanics.