Syllabus

Your Instructor:

S. C. (Chris) Parks

Chris Parks coordinates the online "classroom" portion of the class.  Chris is an Adjunct Professor at Odessa College and holds a Bachelors of Science from Texas A&M, a Masters of Science from the University of Houston, and an MBA from the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs.  Chris is also a Certified Safety Professional and works for ConocoPhillips.  Chris's contact information is as follows:

Primary email: scp.oc@mac.com

Email (work): chris.parks@conocophillips.com

Home: 281-246-4645

Work: 832-486-2364

Please Note: Chris's work contact information is provided as a last resort method of contact.

Course Description:

SCIT 1318 is an introduction to physics for students who have limited backgrounds in science and mathematics.  Topics include motion, solid mechanics and fluid mechanics, properties of matter, heat and thermodynamics.

 Prerequisite: Introductory Algebra (suggested).

Course Objectives:

• Define the basic terminology as related to applied physics.

• Explain and apply the relationship between length, mass, and time.

• Demonstrate problem-solving techniques related to physics principles.

• Solve appropriate physics problems using vector mathematics.

• Summarize the laws of motion.

Instructional Materials Required:

The Cartoon Guide to Physics by Larry Gonick and Art Huffman.  ISBN 0-06-273100-9

The Physics of Star Trek Rev. 7.  ISBN 0-465-00204-8 or 978-0-465-0024-7

NOTE: Here are some links for purchasing used text books.  These are generally cheaper than purchasing through the OC Campus Bookstore.  If you order your book online, please make sure that you receive the book in time to submit the first problem set.

Text Book Hound (Searches several of the ones listed below) 
 
http://www.textbookhound.com/ 
 
Barnes and Noble 
 
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/textbooks/ 
 
Class Book 
 
http://www.classbook.com/classbook/include/home.asp
 
E-Follett 
 
http://www.efollett.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StoreCatalogDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10001
 
Varsity Books 

http://www.varsitybooks.com/\(chgo20rfv3rn1m45qtr1vu45\)/Default.aspx 
 
Book Swap 

http://www.bookswap.com/bookswap/index.cfm? 

ECampus 

http://www.ecampus.com/
 
An article about buying books online: 

http://www.bookspot.com/textbooksfeature.htm

Technical Capabilities Required:

1. A computer
2. An Internet connection
3. The use of a fax machine
4. Read the frequently asked questions (FAQs) on how to take an online course

This course will include:

• Completion of a Discussion Topic (15% of Grade)
• Completion of 3 problem solving assignments (10% of Grade each)
• Completion of a final examination (35% of Grade)
• Completion of a 2 page book report (20% of Grade)

Grades & Grading:

Grades will be awarded on the following percentages:

A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 60-69%
F = Below 60%

This course is broken into three parts: a problem set portion, a final exam and a book report.

The final exam will consist of 10 problems.  Each problem will be worth 10 points.

Students' Responsibilities:

1. This course is not self-paced, you are responsible to keep current and turn in your assignments on time.
2. There will be specific deadlines for assignments.
3. You must have an Internet Service Provider, or regular access to the Internet.
4. You need your own email account .
5. You should check your email DAILY.
6. You should have access to a FAX MACHINE.
7. It is your responsibility to know how to maneuver through the course and access all required information.
8. If you require assistance with technical capabilities and physical requirements of this course, click here for help.
9. If you are having a problem, contact the instructor immediately.