Multiple Thematic Introductory Calculus-Based Physics Course

在联合学院，介绍性的、以微积分为基础的物理课程以多个小讲座/背诵部分的形式提供。通过这个项目，这些目前紧密相连的部分的传统的、历史导向的内容将被多个不相连的部分所取代，这些部分的内容将有不同的指导主题。在这笔拨款下，正在开发两种原型：一种基于空间物理学，另一种基于分子生物物理学。预期专题方法将澄清作为课程本质的基本物理原理的相关性。与当前实践相比，其他重要的变化是减少对经典分析的强调，加强定性推理。为此目的，在教室和实验室使用计算机，特别是现代多媒体技术，作为基本工具是该项目的主要重点。此外，为了鼓励学生进行发现性的工作，实验室的形式正在被重新设计。

Introductory, calculus-based physics is offered in a multiple, small lecture/ recitation section format at Union College. Through this project the traditional, historically oriented content of these currently closely linked sections will be replaced by multiple, unlinked sections whose contents will have different guiding themes. Two prototypes are being developed under this grant: one based on space physics, the other on molecular biophysics. The thematic approach is anticipated to clarify relevance of the basic physical principles which are the essence of the courses. Other important changes from current practice are to lower emphasis on classical analysis and enhance qualitative reasoning. To this end, use of computers, particularly modern multimedia technology, in classroom and laboratory as essential tools is a primary focus of the project. Additionally, laboratory format is being reworked to encourage discovery work by the students.