Guide to Physics Courses Online.
Online Physics.
If you plan to take a physics course, you might consider taking it online instead of
the traditional brick and mortar method.
An online physics course may differ in some ways from a traditional course, and it pays
to be aware of those differences before making your decision, especially if you
have never taken a course online before.
Physics is primarily the study of matter and energy, and it explains
how they interact with each other.
What this means for you is that there will be a few scientific laws to memorize and apply.
Theses laws tend to be used in the form of mathematical equations
and real life applications.
Therefore, any physics class can be expected to keep you quite
busy with interesting material.
If you are taking a physics course online are several other elements to factor in.
Most online schools offer a minimum of an introductory physics course that
will cost the same as any other course with respect to tuition, but may have
additional lab fees as described below.
Any online course requires limited computer knowledge.
You will need to know how to get into your online class, check your email and likely
perform online tasks such as labs, homework assignments, discussion boards and tests.
An overview of some of applications is provided below.
Online classes.
To get to your online class, you first have to sign into the school
website as a student and then go to your online class area from there.
In your class you find your syllabus, lab assignments, homework assignments,
grades and discussion board.
Discussion board.
This is where online tend to take attendance.
They will normally ask a question and your attendance may be graded
based on your response, and also any required responses to other students.
Labs.
Generally you either receive a CD with lab components on it or there will
be links in your lab assignments that directs you to the proper website
– if the lab is an online lab.
If the lab is something you can complete at home, then you receive the directions
and instructions for the proper method of submitting your lab results online.
Homework assignments.
There is normally a separate tab that lists homework assignments and when they are due.
The instructor puts the directions submitting the assignments in the syllabus.
Tests.
Some tests are proctored, which means that you will have to get a
proctor or go to a site near you home that offers proctored exam taking.
The proctor requirements are listed in the syllabus, but generally they may be the
proctors of the actual school you attend, a licensed teacher, or even a librarian.
The computer knowledge you need to complete an online physics course
includes some word processing skills and the ability to navigate links.
You also need to be able to check your email, but if you can check your personal
email then checking your school email will be no different – other than going
through the school site to get to it.
If this is a path you intend to pursue, you may want to check with your school
to see if they offer this course online.
Some traditional colleges have a wide variety of courses online, but there
are also online schools that offer these classes, such as Grand Canyon
University and Phoenix University.
The benefits of taking a physics course online depend on the field you plan
to pursue or are already invested in.
Currently there is a demand for those extensive knowledge of science in all areas.
One particular area that is in need of knowledge is the area of education.
In fact, science teachers are so highly prized that there is a specific grant
for those who plan to teach science.
If you are a current teacher, then you already know that a physics class
not only boosts your career, but in some states also your paycheck.
Those who would use these courses to improve their career would include
teachers, who plan to pursue a degree in science or those wishing to add to their
resume through continuing education.
Don’t be intimidated by the that the class is online.
Though the format may be unfamiliar, online tend to be quite helpful in that area.
They are more concerned about your knowledge and effort in the subject
matter and try to make your online experience as pleasant as is reasonable.