Basic physics requirements and a teacher

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by a student in PHY111, a basic physics course, due to a lack of foundational understanding of concepts such as velocity, acceleration, and time. The student expresses frustration with the teaching style of an engineer-turned-teacher who moves quickly through material without accommodating different learning paces. The student has sought additional help through office hours and tutoring but still struggles to grasp the material, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the course structure and the absence of calculus references. The community emphasizes perseverance and self-reflection as key strategies for overcoming academic challenges.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics concepts such as velocity, acceleration, and time
  • Familiarity with word problem-solving techniques in physics
  • Awareness of the role of calculus in understanding physics
  • Ability to seek help and utilize tutoring resources effectively
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective study techniques for mastering physics fundamentals
  • Explore resources on applying calculus concepts to physics problems
  • Investigate alternative teaching methods that accommodate diverse learning styles
  • Learn about time management strategies to balance multiple subjects
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students struggling with introductory physics courses, educators seeking to improve their teaching methods, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges of learning complex scientific concepts.

kremit
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This may be a long read. Giving you a heads up :zzz:

I am trying to achieve as many opinions as possible to figure out if this problem is simply my own or the teaching style does not agree with the way I learn, maybe i simply do not belong in science. It is past the drop the course point, so its time to take it, physics style.

My situation is I am not understanding a single thing in my PHY111 class. I can't remember the basic, I'll call them, level 1 questions. Things like how to get velocity, acceleration, or time. I do not know how to apply them properly to a word problem. I draw it out, i separate the figures I need to use, but nope. Nothing. We are not allowed to use any calculus references, examples, or practices in this.

Though it seems it would make this class easier as such and if they made it a requirement to take calculus maybe I wouldn't have such a struggle? Most of my class has taken calculus I except for myself and one other person in a class of 20.

The second class meeting, i spent the next day with my teacher in her office hours. I've spent hours upon hours of my own time and tutors time. I would say my other subjects are being neglected I am spending so much time on it. It would be safe to say the tutors are reteaching me what i should have learned in class. In point the example of time, velocity, and acceleration.

Then there is my teacher. She is an engineer turned teacher. She seems to approach her teaching as such. She is fast, tells you what you need to know, moves on.

Am I giving up? I have no idea. But if nothing clicks in my head about the subject. How can I possibly achieve victory? I'll go down fighting, that is for sure. :rolleyes:

Based on the information. What does the community think?
 
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At times I doubt myself. I try to remember that for most of us, it takes a lot of work. The semester is early and it takes more than a few weeks to feel competent at something. Try to remember why you are doing this. Try to work through the periods of doubt. Do not compare yourself with your classmates unless you know them all and their previous education. I hope this helps.
 

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