Re: Thermo of Springs/Pedagogy

[Jim Green <JMGreen@SISNA.COM>]

Ludwik wrote the following -- in a fit of great insight:

> True for a one-to-one dialog, as it is in this game. But in general
> attempts to put too much into the first physics course are not
> desirable, in my opinion. It takes time to start thinking in terms
> of physics. I do believe that "less can be more". Let them enjoy
> illusions of mastery instead of frustrations produced by "so much
> of it". Yes, there is a lot to lose by trying to put too much on little
> shoulders.

True enough, but I wonder if "we" -- the good guys -- sometimes teach such
weak physics thta later some instructor will need -- only with great effort
-- to correct what "we" teach.

Look at the nonsense taught at times by Bill Nye or the stuff on The
Learning Channel here in Utah -- I trust other states have similar
quasi-physics taught.  Or in fact the physics taught in many of "our" intro
(or even advanced) courses.  All because it is easier to teach this than
"correct" physics (whatever that is).

True enough, we can't teach GR to intro classes but we don't need to teach
cartoon physics either.

I am still over here in my corner -- waiting for the turkey.

Jim Green
mailto:JMGreen@sisna.com
http://users.sisna.com/jmgreen