Physics I Lecture with no Lab, problem?

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The discussion centers around a college student's experience with a shortage of lab spots for a Physics I course, where there are significantly more lecture spots than lab spots. The student is currently on a waitlist for the lab and has been advised to consider taking it next semester if they cannot enroll this semester. Concerns are raised about the impact of not taking the lab alongside the lecture on overall learning. Responses indicate that, in some cases, labs may not significantly enhance understanding of the material, especially in introductory courses where problem-solving is emphasized over lab experiments. However, it is suggested that upper-level physics labs may be more beneficial. The student expresses frustration and considers transferring due to the situation.
DrummingAtom
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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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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.
 
It's just a regular Physics I Calc-based.
 
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