GoldenRatio235 said:I currently attend a quarter based college in Washington. My adviser suggested taking Diff. Eq's, Linear Algebra, and Physics Waves and Lab in one quarter. Would this be a good idea or not? I am smart, but not a Sheldon Cooper lol. Any advice would be much appreciated!
DimReg said:I did my undergrad at a quarter based school. There the waves quarter of physics was by far the easiest one, so that course load might not be as hard as it sounds.
Are you taking a fourth class on top of that? Four was the max allowed for me, and whenever I anticipated hard classes I would take 3 instead.
LastOneStanding said:I'm assuming you typically do 3-4 classes per quarter. If those are the only ones you are taking, I think it's a perfectly reasonable schedule. You will find the diff eq's class supports the waves class very nicely. Linear algebra is not that difficult, if you don't struggle too much with thinking abstractly.
Vanadium 50 said:Why do you think your advisor is wrong? Maybe that will help us answer.
retro10x said:It seems strange to me that Linear Algebra is not a pre-req for diffy eqs. You can't get too far into the subject without systems of equations, this makes me think the course is rather simple.
I think the workload for that schedule is fine.
Hercuflea said:I've never heard of a "Physics Waves" class...is that like physics for nonmajors? Linear Algebra and DiffyQ were two of my favorite classes ever, they are about medium difficulty. This is definitely doable. Also, please don't connect Big Bang Theory with real science...
GoldenRatio235 said:Here is the course description for Physics Waves:
Explores electromagnetic waves, the mechanics of oscillatory motion, optics, waves in matter, and experiments in these topics for physical science and engineering majors.
I appreciate the advice. And until now the only thing I connected with real science was the Big Bang Theory and deity formerly known as God...
Hercuflea said:Ok...would you mind telling us your major? I don't think the Physics Waves class will help you much if you are a physics major. However, if you are not a physics major, and you have free electives to fill, then go ahead and take it.
Hercuflea said:Ok...would you mind telling us your major? I don't think the Physics Waves class will help you much if you are a physics major. However, if you are not a physics major, and you have free electives to fill, then go ahead and take it.
Hercuflea said:Ok...would you mind telling us your major? I don't think the Physics Waves class will help you much if you are a physics major. However, if you are not a physics major, and you have free electives to fill, then go ahead and take it.
Hercuflea said:At my school we learn about waves, oscillations, and simple harmonic motion in the normal "Calc based Physics 1/2" sequence. This class sounds like a class for non-physics majors which deals mostly with further applications. Since he said he's an EE major then yeah it will probably help him out since he will be dealing with mainly applications, but a Physics major should have learned about waves in the usual sequence...
retro10x said:It seems strange to me that Linear Algebra is not a pre-req for diffy eqs. You can't get too far into the subject without systems of equations, this makes me think the course is rather simple.
I think the workload for that schedule is fine.
Number Nine said:Most intro ODE courses are cookbooks. There's generally no need to actually understand anything that's going on. The OP can rest assured that s/he will do fine without linear algebra and will retain absolutely nothing from the course after its conclusion.
GoldenRatio235 said:I enjoy your honesty lol, thanks.
Number Nine said:That's not to say that linear algebra won't help you. Systems of linear equations will come much more easily to you if you can some experience with e.g. eigenvectors. Really, linear equations are much more enjoyable when you understand the notion of a vector space.
One way to balance your class load is to create a schedule that includes designated study times for each course. Prioritize your workload by starting with the most difficult or time-consuming tasks first. It may also be helpful to break down larger assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Time management is key when it comes to a heavy class load. Make use of a planner or calendar to keep track of deadlines and assignments. Set aside specific times for studying and stick to them. It may also be helpful to limit distractions, such as social media, during study time.
Before enrolling in classes, consider your other commitments and responsibilities outside of school. It is important to be realistic about your workload and not take on more than you can handle. Speak with your academic advisor for guidance on selecting an appropriate class load.
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed or burnt out when facing a challenging class load. To stay motivated, set achievable goals for yourself and reward yourself when you reach them. Also, remember to take breaks and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Most schools offer resources such as tutors, study groups, and academic advisors to help students manage their class load. Take advantage of these resources when needed. Additionally, there are many time management and study skills resources available online that can be helpful in managing a heavy class load.