Physics 214
Course Resources
Dr. Gladden

• Physics Education Technology (PhET)
  This is a very nice collection of simulations for a wide variety of topics in Physics. The project is out of a group at the University of Colorado.  I will show a number of them in class and  encourage you to spend some time with them on your own.  By "playing around", you are building your physical intuition which goes a long way to help your understanding.  You will need to have Java and Flash installed and working on your computer.

• On-line Homework Website
  The publisher of our text has an on-line homework system called "Mastering Physics".  I have found these systems to be very helpful for students since they see their mistakes right away and can correct them before habits and misconceptions have time to set in.  

• Clickers
  We will be using the University standard PRS - RF "clickers" in this class.  Click the above link for info on these clickers and instructions on how to get them set up.  If you already have one, you do NOT need to buy another (that's the point of a standard).  If you do not have one, you can buy one at the book store for about $50.  That seems to be about the best price I've seen on the internet.  If you buy a used one, MAKE SURE it is the right model.  You will be expected to bring the clickers to class every time.  

• Physics Tutoring Room
  Another good source of help is the Physics Tutoring Center which is just across the hall from our classroom.  There is a graduate student or professor in there many hours of the day to help students with problems (but NOT solve them for you!)  There is a specific schedule posted on the door.