A Student's View Rachel Burgio Physics is closely tied to complex mathematics. Yet, because it is so universal, it is taken by students with majors as diverse as geology, kinesiology, and energy management. This year the SSU Department of Physics and Astronomy offered a new section of the general physics course that focused less on mathematics than the traditional one. Largely responsible for its creation is Dr. Lynn Cominsky. Properties of Matter, Heat and Temperature, Magnets, Electrical Currents, etc.
Most exercises involve setting up and running numerous experiments.
The class environment is unique. With almost no lecturing, the classroom resembles a lively workshop. There is often tangible excitement in the air, as the students struggle together in a collaborative effort. A strange phenomenon not yet explained is that students can be found coming in early and staying late, as the three hour lab periods tend to stretch into four or five. As a first year guinea pig, I think the course is a major success.