Overview
A study of the theoretical and practical application of some basic techniques used in research in the physical sciences. Emphasis is placed on an appreciation for the entire process of scientific practice from proposal through experimentation including poster and oral presentations, to writing a final paper. Includes computer modeling and simulations.
Material
Recommended Texts:An Introduction to Error Analysis: The Study of Uncertainties in Physical Measurements, Taylor: 1996 ISBN:978-0935702750
Amazon
Online Resources:OpenLab Site
Grading Scheme
20% Midterm
30% Lab Reports
25% Final Exam
25% Presentation
Lab Reports
Students will use python to analyze data provided by the instructor. This analysis will be written up and submitted as lab reports. The reports should contain an example of the data, a description of the analysis performed and any graphs visualizing that analysis. In addition, the report will draw conclusions from the analysis. Report will be submitted electronically.
Final Presentation
At the final class meeting, students will present one of their lab reports before the class. This presentation will include both using slides (Google slides, keynote, powerpoint, etc.) as well as an oral explanation of the performed laboratory exercise. The presentation will be graded based ini its clarity and the students demonstrated understanding of the analysis tools used in the exercise.
