To my students:
Even though we find ourselves in a seemingly paradoxical predicament
of having to conducting university business via internet without connectivity,
let me assure you that I will do all within my power to make the rest of the
semester not just worthwhile -- but a good learning experience.
To diminish our anxieties let's go through some scenarios as to how we can
function as a class. You will see that even the worst case scenario will result
in a decent outcome.
Scenario A: We regain full computer and internet functionality
(either Wed, or Fri, or Mon, March 23).
Scenario B: Limited technology available on campus, but everyone is able
to connect from outside Otterbein.
Scenario C: Only email and US mail can be used to exchange information.
While Scenario C is clearly the worst case since
we are already doing better than that (You can download files
from this website, for instance), let's look at a plan based on it.
In Scenario C, I'll email you an updated syllabus with readings, you honker
down and study the physical copy of the textbook that you (should) have ---
distraction-free, since you have limited connectivity. You email in
homework (that will be distributed via email), and you can ask questions via
email. Exams can be distributed by email, and
answers can be emailed back within a strict time frame. In the end we have
succeeded in conducting a worthwhile university course, and you will receive
credit for it as usual.
As I said, this is the worst case scenario. Likely, we will have some
connectivity back soon, and hence we
can communicate via Slack channel, office phone,
and may even conduct virtual, synchronous (i.e. at regular class times) class
"meetings". Materials such as lecture notes and recorded lectures will be
available also in the case. Please see below for more and course-specific
information.
A word of encouragement. While these are difficult times, they are also
exciting times. Often, crisis situations lead to personal growth.
There is an old adage: Every experience is a good experience, even a bad
experience. Give yourselves some credit: you are diligent, hard-working
students at a good university, and you are in better physical shape than much
of the population --- you have a lot going for you!
Practical advise for this week (till March 20):
Email should always work. In particular, during class times I should be able to respond in real time.
Try the physics slack channel for more options, see official webpage.
We might be able to communicate directly via "Zoom". In case,
I'll host the meeting, send around a link via email, and all you have
to do is to dial
in (you might have to download Zoom beforehand, but this should be quick
and free). Video might not be possible, but maybe audio. Hopefully
I can display powerpoint slides and go over them, or share my screen, etc.
Plan on finishing the WebAssign homework. I'll extend the deadline to Friday,
March 20. Email if you have questions.
PHYS 1600 Materials
Please review Kirchhoff's laws. I'll send around some activity you should
work on tomorrow, Wed Mar 18 during class time. Email me questions
you might have before or during class time.
PHYS 3050 Materials
Please review the chapter on Rigid Bodies in Taylor.
I will be in email contact. Not sure yet if Zoom is an option.
