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Department of Physics, Willamette University

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Teaching Experience

Willamette University

Physics 221 - Introductory Physics I	An introduction to classical mechanics and thermodynamics. This course studies the concepts and techniques required to measure, describe and predict the motion of particles and extended objects. Topics include kinematics of linear motion, forces and Newton's laws, gravitation, momentum, work, energy, rotational motion, angular momentum, torque, fluids, oscillations, temperature, heat, and thermal energy.
Physics 221 - Introductory Physics II	An introduction to electricity, magnetism, and optics. This course studies the concepts and techniques required to understand interactions between charged particles as well as light as an electromagnetic wave. Topics include electrical force, electric field, electric potential, capacitance, electric current, circuits, magnetic field, inductance, Faraday's law, electromagnetic waves, reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction and polarization.
Physics 223 - Modern Physics	This course is a survey of the major developments in physics of the 20th century, as well as an introduction to more sophisticated mathematical and laboratory techniques. Topics include special relativity, the quantum nature of light, the wave nature of particles, the Schrödinger equation, atomic physics, molecules, quantum statistical physics, nuclear physics, particle physics and cosmology.
Physics 250 - Physical Biology of the Cell	This course explores how the insights of physics and mathematics have illuminated the complex phenomena of the cell. We will study the use of quantitative and predictive models to describe biological systems, and discuss the experimental methods that provide the quantitative data required to create and test these models. The course will be structured around a series of case studies involving some of the key players in molecular and cell biology.
Physics 396 - Advanced Topics in Experimental Physics	The primary goals of ATEP are (1) to expose you to experimental techniques from modern physics and (2) to deepen your understanding of the relationship between experiment and theory. You will be challenged to understand a variety of experimental setups and interpret the data collected from each. We will focus on three skill sets: 1. Oral communication 2. Written communication 3. Experimental technique 4. Researching and gathering information.
Physics 495 & 496 - Research Seminar	This is the required Senior Year Experience for all Physics majors. Students design and carry out individual research projects under the mentorship of a departmental faculty member. Weekly meetings include seminars, discussions of research methods, peer teaching, and opportunities to practice scientific communication skills.