Instructor Insights
"I decided to include a lot of demos during my lectures because I believe that to learn physics you have to know how to convert everything into mathematics, (…) make predictions, and, finally, compare predictions to experimental data. Demonstrations (…) show that the mathematics we cover in class (relate) to what nature does in physical systems."
Below, Professor Yen-Jie Lee describes various aspects of how he teaches 8.03 Physics III: Vibrations and Waves.
- Students’ Common Misconceptions
- Making Time for Individual Questions in a Large Lecture
- Using Humor to Enhance Learning
- Using Demonstrations in Class
- Behind-the-Scenes Demo Prep
- Taking a Vote to Engage Learners
- Combining Chalk Talks and Slides in a Complementary Way
- Using Questionnaires to Customize Course Content
- The Role of Recitations
- Course Iteration: Incorporating Theoretical Content and Demonstrations
- Tips for Physics Educators
Curriculum Information
Prerequisites
18.02 Multivariable Calculus and 8.02 Electricity and Magnetism
Requirements Satisfied
GIR
8.03 may be applied toward a Bachelor of Science in Physics.
Offered
Every fall and spring semester
Assessment
The students’ grades were based on the following activities:
- 25% Problem sets
- 20% Exam 1
- 20% Exam 2
- 35% Final exam
Student Information
Enrollment
71 students
Breakdown by Year
Mostly sophomores
Breakdown by Major
Mostly physics majors
Typical Student Background
Some students had backgrounds in advanced mathematics.
How Student Time Was Spent
During an average week, students were expected to spend 12 hours on the course, roughly divided as follows:
In Class
- Met 2 times per week for 1.5 hours per session; 27 sessions total.
- Class sessions included lectures, demonstrations, and time to ask the professor questions.
Recitation
- Met 2 times per week for 1 hour per session; 28 sessions total.
- Smaller groups of students met with class staff to work through problem sets and to ask questions about the course material.
Out of Class
- Outside of class, students worked on problem sets and prepared for exams.
