This course is designed to bridge learning gaps in math and physics for first year undergraduate physics students. It may be especially helpful for students who do not yet meet the math requirements for calculus, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and/or other factors. Professors can determine which students may be eligible for the course by test scores, questionnaires, or observations.
Physics Perspectives is not a substitute for any other mandatory math or physics course. This means that a student taking Physics Perspectives must also take their required Calculus I through III and Physics I through III classes. Students taking physics perspectives are encouraged to take Physics 1 or 2 over the summer, if offered, so that they can graduate on time.
When used correctly, this course may be able to help students thrive within the physics department and in their subsequent math classes.
Sarah Bustin, UMass Lowell '23, is an aspiring high school physics teacher. She was the main developer of the course and was a Learning Assistant in Spring 2023. When not doing physics, she loves international folk dancing, singing, and hiking.
Dr. Lepeshkin is an Associate Teaching Professor, the Associate Chair for Undergraduate Education, and the Transfer Coordinator for the Physics department at UMass Lowell. He enjoys adding demos and interactive elements to his lessons.
Dr. Laycock joined UMass Lowell in Fall 2010, following postdoctoral research at Gemini Observatory and Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. He completed his Ph.D in Astronomy at the University of Southampton, UK in 2002. He is a faculty advisor for UML's Astronomy Club and runs the new Schueller Observatory on South Campus.
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