Distunguished Professor in Residence, Department of Physics High Point University

Professor Emerita of Physics, North Carolina State University

Title: Computational Models and Conceptual Understanding in Introductory Physics

Abstract:

Constructing and exploring computational models can offer significant support for the development of conceptual understanding of fundamental principles in physics. Computation can allow students to model interesting and complex physical systems, using fundamental physics principles. However, most students who take introductory physics courses have had no prior exposure to programming. By teaching a minimal set of computational concepts in the context of physics activities, we can engage students in constructing and refining real-time 3D computational models of interesting physical systems. I will show examples from mechanics and thermodynamics.

*Refreshments will be served before the colloquium*