Physics 111 - College Physics I

College Physics I is an introductory level course in Classical Mechanics typically organized into three main units of study; Kinematics (the study of motion), Statics & Dynamics (the study of interactions), and Principles of Conservation (a study of energy and momentum concepts). This is an algebra-based course that will require some familiarity with trigonometry, as well.

In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, this course switched to a Hybrid Model for teaching and learning.

I am currently working on a course redesign to enhance the learning experience for my students in this new format.

  • In short, a hybrid course will only meet face-to-face one time a week. By comparison, the standard face-to-face model would involve two meetings instead.

  • Students will be expected to complete some introductory course work online prior to the in-person meeting each week. This will likely include instructional videos, short readings, and check-in/reflection assignments.

  • In our limited time together, we will need to engage in more targeted discussions, lab experiences, and extension activities in order to develop a genuine & deep understanding of the content as well as proficiency in critical thinking and problem-solving techniques.

  • After the in-person class session, students will be expected to complete additional practice exercises and a variety of graded assignments (lab reports, Expert TA problem sets, etc).

How will I be graded?

    • --- Pending ----

Will I need a textbook?

I don't usually teach directly from a text, but when I do I prefer....

My students are not required to purchase a textbook in order to be successful in the course. If a student would like a hardcopy of a textbook to use as a reference/resource, just about any College Physics text will do the trick. I will refer to content and assign problem sets gathered from College Physics from OpenStax. The OpenStax text is available for free as a PDF or viewable online at https://openstax.org/details/books/college-physics.

Will I need to buy anything for this class?

The one item that each student will definitely need to purchase is access to an online homework system called The Expert TA. The cost will be approximately $35 for the semester. If you're interested in giving it a quick look before the semester begins, you can find information at https://theexpertta.com/ Access to The Expert TA will be through Canvas so that the Third-Party Software links more effectively with our course.

And, because this course is being taught online, students will also need regular access to a computer with internet access as well as webcam and microphone capabilities for Webex video conferencing (although a smart phone may suffice for video conferencing).