Energy, the Environment, and Engineering Design +Lab (=PHY 214)

Catalog description

An introduction to engineering design through a focus on energy and the environment. Students work in teams to create computer-controlled models of solar-powered buildings. Class meets for 2 hours 3 times/week in a combined discussion/laboratory setting with 3 hours of open laboratory activity per week. Counts as an environmental natural sciences content course for the environmental studies interdisciplinary major and minor. Satisfies a requirement in the Experimental Physics minor. Satisfies the Natural Science requirement. Prerequisites & Notes Who Should Take This Class? Does not count for credit in the Physics major. This class welcomes all Davidson students, especially first- and second-year students that have not yet chosen a major, non-science major students, and students interested in Engineering and/or Environmental Studies. There are no math or science prerequisites, and no prior experience in physics is expected. Of course, we will need to use math - at the level of high school algebra and trigonometry - in this course. The creative and open-ended nature of the labs and final design project will give all students the opportunity to work at an appropriate and rewarding level consistent with relevant STEM preparation. Students of all cultures, backgrounds, and abilities are welcome, valued, and appreciated in this class.