Has Anyone Used MIT Open Courseware for Self-Study?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of MIT Open Courseware as a resource for self-study in physics, specifically in the context of a challenging course taught by a professor who is more focused on research than teaching. Participants explore the potential of online resources to supplement their learning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, a Physics undergrad, expresses difficulty with their current course due to the teaching style of their professor and seeks recommendations for self-study resources.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on which specific course is being referenced, indicating that the course content is important for determining the suitability of resources.
  • The original poster specifies that the course is a Calculus-based introductory physics course, mentioning topics such as motion and work/energy, and expresses a desire for more in-depth material.
  • One participant suggests using MIT Open Courseware for additional knowledge but cautions against relying on it as a complete substitute for the professor's teaching, noting that course content can vary significantly between institutions.
  • This participant also recommends exploring Yale's online courses as a potential resource.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the effectiveness of MIT Open Courseware as a substitute for traditional instruction, with some advocating for its use as a supplementary resource while others emphasize the importance of the professor's teaching.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the variability in course content and teaching styles, suggesting that the effectiveness of online resources may depend on individual learning needs and the specific curriculum of the course.

danielu13
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Hey guys,

I am currently a Physics undergrad student. We have a professor that is more into research, so he isn't the best at teaching the material. Many people are having issues with this specific class due to the professor and we are looking for a way to teach ourselves. I found MIT Open Courseware, which seems to be a good choice. I'm wondering if anyone has used this before or have any other suggestions for some type of guidance.

Thanks!
 
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What course is it? That makes a big difference.
 
It's PY 201 listed http://www2.acs.ncsu.edu/reg_records/crs_cat/PY.html . It's basically the first physics course for Physics majors at my college, and deals with Calculus-based Newtonian physics. Motion, work/energy, and other basic physics concepts such as that. I personally would be happy with something that goes a little more in-depth though.
 
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I'd only use it for additional knowledge, not a substitute for what your professor is teaching since courses can vary from place to place.

These from Yale might help: http://oyc.yale.edu/physics
 

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