- Models of Motion

Institution:

The Evergreen State College

Subject:

Description:

Faculty: Mario Gadea (mathematics, physics), Richard Weiss (computer science) Major areas of study include physics, calculus and computer programming in Python. Class Standing: This all-level program offers appropriate support for freshmen as well as supporting and encouraging those ready for advanced work. Prerequisites: Precalculus. Careful observation of the physical world reveals an underlying order. The goal of physics is to build models that explain this order. Crucial among such models are those that explain the interactions between objects and the changes in motion those interactions bring about. With the development of new physical models come new mathematical methods needed for describing them. Calculus, for example, is enormously successful as a tool for analyzing simple models of reality. However, for more complex situations, approximate methods are needed. We can simulate these situations on a computer using numerical methods or algorithms in order to understand their behavior. Learning how to do that efficiently will be one of the goals of this program. During fall quarter, we will cover introductory topics in physics, calculus and computer programming in Python through small-group workshops, interactive lectures, hands-on laboratory investigations and computer programming labs. Through our study of physics,we will learn about models of motion and change and the process for constructing them. We will also learn how to use calculus to analyze these models mathematically and computer programming to create efficient simulations of them. In winter and spring quarters, our focus will primarily be on physics and calculus, with the goal of completing a full year of university-level physics and calculus by the end of the year. During spring quarter, students will have the opportunity to design and carry out laboratory or computer investigations of topics in physics that interest them. Total: 16 credits each quarter. Enrollment: 48 Special Expenses: Approximately $125 for graphing calculator. Program is preparatory for careers and future studies in physics, mathematics, computer science and education. This program is also listed under Programs for Freshmen. A similar program is expected to be offered in 2009-10.

Credits:

16.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.evergreen.edu

Phone Number:

(360) 867-6170

Regional Accreditation:

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Calendar System:

Quarter

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