Anonymous AY25/26 Sem 1

About the Instructor:

Prof Jonathan was very approachable: he would be open to consults and extensive discussions, especially about our assignments. He also facilitated lively class discussions and was able to convey the concepts in an accessible way. 

Content (Structure/Organization): 

The first half focuses on the theoretical concepts i.e. static friction, dynamic friction, lubrication. There is a lot of emphasis on how contextual factors can make real-world outcomes different from theoretical outcomes. However, we weren't required to learn equations or do any math at all! 

The second half focuses on applications of friction. The class discussions focus on giving us the framework to analyse different applications of friction, which we could then apply to our group project when choosing our own case study. 

The physics aspects of friction were quite skimmed over, and there was a lot more emphasis on the interdisciplinary aspects, especially the sociological aspects like how societal changes impacted applications of friction. As a humanities major, I personally did not mind this. Nevertheless, Prof Jonathan is very open to elaborating more on the theoretical concepts.

Manageability of Workload: 

There were 3 assignments in total:  

1) Individual essay about friction in an object you have direct experience with

2) Group project which is similar to the individual essay except that there is a longer report and presentation

3) Individual friction journal- 3-5 short analyses and reflections about objects you have direct experience with, and interdisciplinary analysis of 1 of these objects leading to an open-ended research question (you don't have to answer the research question) 

I found the workload very manageable, and the group project was the most challenging. There were no readings for this course.

Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades:

I think Prof Jonathan's grading is quite fair yet it is not hard to score well as long as you provide enough technical analysis and personal reflection. 

Learning Value/Recommendation: 

I found the course quite rewarding as it encouraged me to be more mindful of friction in my daily life. 

Additional Comments/Word of Advice:

Work on the friction journal consistently over the semester, even though it is only due in Week 13. Start collating potential items and writing early.