Dorf and Svoboda, Introduction to Electric Circuits, 5th Edition. Homework is assigned weekly for a total of 9 assignments over the quarter. Two exams are given nominally at the ends of the 4th and 8th weeks, and a comprehensive final exam is given at the end of the quarter. Instructors may, at their option, substitute one weekly 50 minute quiz section for one of the weekly lectures. Teaching assistants administer the quiz sections when this structure is used.
Students perform six laboratories with personal mulitmeters using parts kits sold by the department.
If instructors utilize the quiz section format, then a component from this may also be used in determining the final grades for students. A component from laboratory grades may also be used in determining the final grades. The homeworks and exams require direct application of mathematics, scientific, and engineering knowledge to successfully complete the course. This requires performing various linear circuit analysis methods in a formal manner and many supporting and follow-up calculations. Students conduct six simple circuit experiments using personal multimeters, a breadboard and a parts kit.