“Parallel” pedagogy covers the four mechanics concepts of momentum, energy, forces, and kinematics simultaneously instead of building each concept on an understanding of the previous one. Course content is delivered through interactive videos, allowing class time for group work and student-centered activities. We start with simple examples, building complexity throughout the course with the introduction of springs, two dimensions, vectors, energy diagrams, universal gravitation, and rotation. Success means that students ponder underlying physics concepts rather than hunt for formulas. Surveys indicate that students accept this learning model well and have considerable improvement in applied conceptual understanding.

Topics
Potential energy surfaces, Telecommunications engineering, Gravitation, Lenses, Educational aids, Educational assessment, Teaching, Lectures, Physicists, Public policy and governance
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Comprehensive results can be accessed from the spring 2016 class website: http://sharedcurriculum.wikispaces.com/Introductory+Mechanics+Spring+2016.
© 2017 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2017
American Association of Physics Teachers
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