Physics I Lecture with no Lab, problem?

In summary, there are more Physics I lectures than labs at the speaker's college, with 144 spots for lectures and only 112 for labs. The labs are currently filled up and the speaker is on a waitlist for a lab. Their advisor suggested taking the lab next semester if they do not get in this semester. The speaker is unsure about the usefulness of the lab and is considering transferring to another college for a better lab experience. In response, someone else shares their experience that labs have little relevance to the course material and that working on problem sets is more beneficial for learning. They also mention that this is just their personal experience and that labs may be more helpful in upper level physics courses.
  • #1
DrummingAtom
659
2
At my college, I've found out, there's more Physics I lectures than Physics I labs. 144 spots for Lecture and only 112 spots for Labs. You guessed it, the labs are all filled up.

I'm currently on a waitlist for the Lab. I talked to my advisor and she pretty much said oh well, you can take it next semester if you don't get in this semester.. I seriously don't understand this.

Has anyone else gone through something like this? Will I be hindered in my learning by not taking the Lab while taking the Lecture? It seems to me there's definitely a transfer in my future. Thanks for any help.
 
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  • #2
DrummingAtom said:
...Has anyone else gone through something like this? Will I be hindered in my learning by not taking the Lab while taking the Lecture? It seems to me there's definitely a transfer in my future. Thanks for any help.

Obviously I can't speak for everyone, but in my experience, labs have little to nothing to do with what is actually being taught in the course. Which physics course is this for? In my intro mechanics class, the labs were on-topic but absurdly simple. What helps you learn physics at that stage is working problems, not doing inane "experiments" and typing up results.

Let me repeat though: this is just my experience and these were into level classes. I would think for upper level physics courses, the labs are much more helpful.
 
  • #3
It's just a regular Physics I Calc-based.
 

1. What is the purpose of a Physics I Lecture with no Lab?

The purpose of a Physics I Lecture with no Lab is to introduce students to the basic principles and concepts of physics, including motion, forces, energy, and waves. It provides a foundation for further study in physics and other related fields.

2. What topics are typically covered in a Physics I Lecture with no Lab?

Topics covered in a Physics I Lecture with no Lab may include kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, rotational mechanics, and simple harmonic motion. Other topics may vary depending on the specific course and instructor.

3. Do I need a background in math to understand a Physics I Lecture with no Lab?

While a strong foundation in math can be helpful, it is not necessarily required to understand a Physics I Lecture with no Lab. Many concepts can be explained and understood using basic algebra and geometry.

4. Are there any hands-on activities in a Physics I Lecture with no Lab?

Since there is no lab component, most Physics I Lectures do not include hands-on activities. However, some instructors may incorporate demonstrations or simulations to help illustrate key concepts.

5. How can I succeed in a Physics I Lecture with no Lab?

To succeed in a Physics I Lecture with no Lab, it is important to attend lectures, take thorough notes, and actively participate in class discussions. It is also helpful to practice solving problems and seek help from the instructor or tutoring services if needed.

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