This is the first of four STEM lectures. It introduces problem-solving strategies for STEM classes and covers unit conversion, 1D motion with constant acceleration, and free-fall with gravitational acceleration.
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Learning Objectives
Introduce students to the lecture portion of the STEM course
Begin building problem-solving strategies
Learn major topics related to 1-Dimensional Motion (below)
Practice note-taking for STEM courses
Major Topics
Direction in 1D (+/-x)
Distance and displacement
Average velocity and speed
Average acceleration and deceleration
Equations of motion (variables: x, v, t, a) with constant acceleration a and when a = g
SI units of measure for time, position, velocity, and acceleration
Free fall in a gravitational field (both down only and up-down motion)
Readings & Assignments
These are required readings and assignments that students work on the night before. The fellows support students' learning of the concepts covered in the readings and problems during Section and Problem Set work time.
Read Urone & Hinrichs, College Physics, pp. 13-14, 17, 32-34, 35-41, 49-56, 61-62
Work through Examples 2.8 (pp. 50-51) and 2.9 (p. 52)
What Students Know
Students will come to your lecture with varying levels of experience and understanding. Some will not have had a math or science class in a long time while some might currently be taking a college-level math or science course. All participants are encouraged to complete a math primer before the course starts, but it is not required. This primer is a self-diagnostic with an answer key and links to accompanying Kahn Academy lessons and videos for areas where students think they need additional knowledge. Participants also had vectors and trigonometry review and Python primer on Sunday, the day before your lecture. The Python primer is designed to prepare those who will be using Python for their research project.
Research Project
All participants engage in a week-long research project designed and run by a Research Project Leader at the host institution. These research projects encourage the direct application of the concepts learned in your lecture so students can learn how to use the concepts to solve “real-world” problems. These research projects culminate in a presentation on the Friday of the boot camp week. We encourage you to take the time to attend these presentations if you are able.
Your Role
Faculty provide a core service in our academic boot camps by ensuring that WSP participants experience a college-level course in a real-life setting. This experience helps to instill confidence and prompt motivation to pursue higher education. Your role is, ultimately, to be yourself; to share your expertise with participants and to run the class like you would with traditional college students. We highly encourage you to find ways to connect with participants and to share any advice you have for them as they transition from military service to higher education.
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