Physics for the Year 2000

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The calculus-based introductory physics course, with an annual enrollment of roughly 150,000 students, is the educational cornerstone for all physical science and engineering majors as well as the primary influence on general physics courses at lower levels. This project draws upon: 1) physics education research, 2) computer technology and software development for physics, and 3) guidelines developed by the Introductory University Physics Project in order to develop a unified new curriculum for the course. Emphasis is placed on incorporating effective pedagogy into the course, on the use of a "story line" and improved course structure, and on bringing a significant component of 20th century physics into the course. The aspect of this course that sets it apart from curriculum development efforts elsewhere is that it is aimed primarily at universities that teach large numbers of students. This is the target audience that must be reached if new developments in science education are to succeed. Specific attention will be given to the many constraints that a large university setting places on the course.