Conference Session

Innovations in Teaching Physics or Engineering Phy

Collection

2008 Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Robert Ross, University of Detroit Mercy; Jenna Ross, Utica Center for Mathematics Science and Technology

Tagged Divisions

Engineering Physics & Physics

connected to the input of the audio amplifier,students can hear the temporal pattern of light, either visible or infrared, that is producing currentin the cell. Room light causes audible noise to be generated by the amplifier. Students hear theoscillation due to the alternating current in the light. They hear a different pitch when they holdthe cell up to the front surface of a computer monitor, which refreshes at 72Hz, and they heardeafening silence when the cell is placed in direct sunlight. Television remote controls useinfrared LEDs to produce a digital signal. When one is directed at the solar cell and amplifiercombination, sounds are heard as buttons are depressed. We use this activity to show thatinfrared light reflects from a mirror in the

Conference Session

Technology in the Physics or Engineering Physics C

Collection

2008 Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Nataliia Perova, Tufts University; Walter H. Johnson, Suffolk University; Chris Rogers, Tufts University

Tagged Divisions

Engineering Physics & Physics

. A construction of knowledgethrough meaningful activities, reflected in socio-constructivist ideas, rather then acquisitionthrough transmission in formal instruction, became important for deeper conceptual knowledgedevelopment, and scientific inquiry became an integral part of the learning sciences.Our instructional module should be effective in improving students learning based uponeducational theories such as multiple intelligences and constructivism. The unit provides alearning environment based on several principles of Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory. Avariety of learning activities are included, such as discussions that promote student–studentinteractions, group projects that allow for creative elements and laboratory

Conference Session

Technology in the Physics or Engineering Physics C

Collection

2008 Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Raymond Winton, Mississippi State University

Tagged Divisions

Engineering Physics & Physics

mathematics overhead andallows the novice professional to see the concepts without either investment in the analyticaloverhead nor in the extensive set of second-order parameters reflected by the parameter setsfor these advanced device models.The simplest model of the MOS transistor is represented by figure 1.1, and identifies theessential operation of the device and minimum set of device parameters. (a) 4-terminal schematic symbol (b) physical cross-section Figure 1.1. MOS device cross-section and circuit symbol.The device cross-section is the basis for the symbol and emphasizes that the device is a field- Page 13.807.3controlled

Conference Session

Innovations in Teaching Physics or Engineering Phy

Collection

2008 Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Adrian Ieta, Murray State University; Arthur Pallone

Tagged Divisions

Engineering Physics & Physics

wasalso found that peer assessment is correlated with the enhancement of student learning bymeans of reflection, analysis and diplomatic criticism [3]. Nevertheless, there isresistance in academia to use of the peer assessment method [7] and some concerns aboutpeer assessment have been reported in the literature [10]. We assumed that students willhave a positive reaction to the new assessment technique and that it will help thembecome more responsible, as reported by others [2]. We assumed that the benefits of thepeer assessment technique outweight other associated concerns and used the technique inboth classes.OPTICSOptics is a 400 level, 3 contact-hours course curriculum requirement for Engineering andEngineering Physics students. Due to the

Conference Session

Programmatic Issues in Physics or Engineering Physics Programs

Collection

2008 Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Anca Sala, Baker College; Raghu Echempati, Kettering University

Tagged Divisions

Engineering Physics & Physics

calculations using the ideal gas law, andanalyze and interpret the kinetic theory of ideal gases.6. Interpret the first law of thermodynamics, and calculate and predict work, heat, and internalenergy change for various thermodynamic processes.7. Interpret the concepts of reversibility, second law of thermodynamics, and entropy, andanalyze heat engines and refrigerators.8. Analyze and interpret the concepts of reflection and refraction of light and geometric optics.Perform calculations using Snell's law.9. Formulate the concepts of images and optics including virtual and real images, focal length,diverging and converging lens, and spherical and chromatic aberration. Perform calculationsusing lens makers equation.10. Interpret the concepts of

Conference Session

Technology in the Physics or Engineering Physics C

Collection

2008 Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Nataliia Perova, Tufts University; Patricia Hogan, Suffolk University; Walter H. Johnson, Suffolk University

Tagged Divisions

Engineering Physics & Physics

yourecharge the 5 Ah battery to maintain the mote in the operational condition.The understanding of the concept of EM wave propagation is one of the fundamental topicsincluded in physics and physical science textbooks. Participant of this study indicated that theytook at some point a university physics course so they could explain this question based on theirprevious knowledge. It is also possible that participants gain an understanding through directexperimentation with the Tmote devices and some of the responses can reflect that. To teststudents’ understanding of electromagnetic waves propagation they were asked the questionwhether it would be feasible to try to increase the speed of transmission of EM signal usingwater as the media where the wave

Conference Session

Programmatic Issues in Physics or Engineering Physics Programs

Collection

2008 Annual Conference & Exposition

Authors

Jeff Jalkio, University of St. Thomas; Arnold Weimerskirch, University of St. Thomas

Tagged Divisions

Engineering Physics & Physics

course learning outcomes is a key part of assigning student grades.Second, accomplishment of course learning outcomes is used as an assessment tool for assessingthe curriculum. Third, assessment of how well students have accomplished the course learningoutcomes is used to improve the course in future offerings. It is the use of course data in this lastform as feedback for course improvement that is addressed in the fourth, course level, Demingcycle.Since each instructor is responsible for assessment of course learning outcomes, various methodsare used including portfolios, reflection papers, feedback from follow-on courses, pre and posttests or concept inventories, and grading systems that tie grades directly to accomplishment