UNLVs PLC
The Physics
The
Physics Learning Center (PLC) at UNLV
is designed to encourage students to take charge of their learning by working
in informal cooperative groups. The PLC is staffed by experienced faculty
and peer instructors who act as guides rather than tutors when students initially
ask for help. They employ Socratic methods, giving students hints as to how to
proceed and drawing attention to errors in thinking. Instructors do not try to
frustrate students needlessly, but do encourage them to take responsibility for
developing their full career potentials.
The
Physics Learning Center provides mastery learning assistance for several
physics courses during scheduled hours of operation.
Students voluntarily attend the PLC to improve their mastery of
the course's material and to hone skills needed for success in their academic
and in their professional careers. These include:
· Clarity of physical insight, analysis and communication;
· Expert methods of problem solving;
· Insightful physical interpretations and analyses;
· Assured confidence through actual achievements;
· Experience with spontaneous teamwork and leadership.
The
Physics Learning Center has been an overwhelming success. Students come
to realize that the insight, techniques, and precision of thought that they develop
will contribute significantly to success in their future careers. The PLC
also helps students enhance interpersonal skills in a spirit of cooperative learning.
For more information, contact Prof. John
Farley (farley@unlv.nevada.edu), (702) 895-3084, UNLV Physics Dept.,
Where? BPB 248/249
Acknowledgement: This page originally created by Prof. Ronald Bieniek during the 2005-6 academic year when he was a visiting professor at UNLV. At the time Bieniek was a physics professor at the University of Missouri, Rolla, which has since been renamed the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Bieniek is now a dean at Marshall University (www.marshall.edu/honors/deansmessage.html).
This page last updated January15, 2007