WINTHROP UNIVERSITY
Department of Chemistry, Physics, & Geology
Syllabus

Semester: Spring 2021            
Course: PHYS 351 (002) – Independent Study in Physics                       
Pre-requisite: PHYS 212 or PHYS 202 and department chair approval    
Credit hours: 3                                

Project based Research: Sims 206 and 207. Students will perform experiments related to projects and complete a report for each project with a final presentation for a project of their choice.                                                        

Professor: Dr. Ponn Maheswaranathan (HUMahesUH), Sims 213-B.
Office Hours: T & Th 11-12:30 and 8-9 PM, WebLink or by appointment.  
Phone: 323 4940, E-mail: HUmahesp@winthrop.eduU

Textbook:  None, Reference materials will be provided. 

Course Description                    

PHYS 351 is a Directed study of topics in physics which are not available through the regular curriculum. This Independent Study in Physics course primarily intended for
minors in engineering physics. Students will conduct project based research in selected topics familiar to them or exposed to in prior courses.    

Course Objectives

a. Develop an understanding of the techniques used in fundamental research of physics topics.
b. Develop problem-solving skills in projects.  
c. Gain an understanding of physics problem solving in science & technology projects. 

University-Level Competency

Independent study in physics introduces students to the role of scientific reasoning in designing projects and solving research problems (e.g. analyzing amplifier circuits, designing radio receivers, and measuring fundamental physical propertites of matter). They will apply the scientific methodologies of inquiry during the design, analysis, and construction of electronic projects. They will also be introduced to experimentation and investigation of physical science topics such as temperature dependence of speed of sound in air and temperature depenmdence of the density of water.    

Homework

It is essential to do research for designing and constructing the projects. Follow the reference materials and solve problems to gain mastery of independent research. Reading assignments, reference materials, and background research are assigned for each project.  
The students are advised to make a genuine effort to complete all the assigned work and
complete the projects.  

Students with Disabilities/Need of Accommodations for Access:

Winthrop University is committed to providing access to education.  If you have a condition which may adversely impact your ability to access academics and/or campus life, and you require specific accommodations to complete this course, contact the Office of Accessibility (OA) at 803-323-3290, or, accessibility@winthrop.edu. Please inform me as early as possible, once you have your official notice of accommodations from the Office of Accessibility.

Winthrop’s Academic Success Center
Winthrop’s Academic Success Center (ASC) is a free resource for all undergraduate students seeking to perform their best academically.  The ASC offers a variety of personalized and structured resources that help students achieve academic excellence, such as tutoring, academic skill development (test taking strategies, time management counseling, and study techniques), group and individual study spaces, and academic coaching.  The ASC is located on the first floor of Dinkins, Suite 106.  Please contact the ASC at 803-323-3929 or success@winthrop.edu.  For more information on ASC services, please visit www.winthrop.edu/success.

Winthrop’s Office of Nationally Competitive Awards (ONCA) identifies and assists highly motivated and talented students to apply for nationally and internationally competitive awards, scholarships, fellowships, and unique opportunities both at home and abroad.   ONCA gathers and disseminates award information and deadlines across the campus community, and serves as a resource for students, faculty, and staff throughout the nationally competitive award nomination and application process. ONCA is located in Dinkins 222. Please fill out an online information form at the bottom of the ONCA webpage www.winthrop.edu/onca and email onca@winthrop.edu for more information.

Student Conduct Code
The policy on student academic misconduct is outlined in the “Student Conduct" website and the Student Handbook.   

Syllabus change policy
Instructor will make changes to this syllabus as deemed necessary for the progression of the course.

Exam Policy
There are no tests or final exam in this course. Students will submit bi-weekly progress reports and a final paper & presentation.    

Grade The letter grade will be assigned as follows:
100% - 90% = A     89% - 87% = A-    86% - 84% = B+    83% - 80% = B    79% - 77% = B-   
 76%-74% = C+   73% - 67% = C     66% - 64% = C-       63%-60% = D      59%- 0%  = F