Each chapter introduces a few new concepts. Students are given problem assignments to practice applying the concepts. Quizzes, hour exams, and laboratory assignments are given and graded to test the students' understanding of the concepts. The goal of this procedure is to develop in the student a problem solving capability such that they will be capable of solving a problem they have not seen before. Algebra and trigonometry is used the first day of class and is an essential part of the class.
Students do study together and help each other solve problems.
However, the quizzes and exams are taken individually. The laboratory assignments are done in groups of two. The primary source of information for the student is the textbook. This year the textbook comes with four CD's that contain demonstrations, tutorials on the concepts, simulations of the homework problems, and link to web sites for additional information on each chapter. The basic premise of all science courses is that students should not accept the word of an authority figure that a statement is true but should prove it themselves.