Program Review 2006 Physics & Astronomy

Program Status - Physics The Physics program is currently healthy and stable. A decrease in enrollment of the calculus based classes has been off-set by an increase in the algebra based courses.

Program Status - Physics The program is in good shape in terms of equipment.

Program Status - Astronomy Program is healthy and growing.

Equipment needs Set of 8 inch telescopes (replacement) Set of 8 inch telescopes (growth) Set of He-Ne lasers (replacement) Set of computers for P.S. labs (new)

Staffing needs Hire a tenure track instructor with an astronomy background to consolidate the program instead of having it all taught by physics instructors with limited background in astronomy. This will also allow us to increase the number of laboratories we can offer.

Program changes Develop on-line courses Move from multiple section lecture classes to integrated lab/lecture sections to better utilize the block schedule.

Problem areas from previous program review Grade Inflation Lack of gender equity in calculus based physics.

Problem areas Decrease in students in Science/Engineering Lack of gender/racial equity in Science/Engineering Telescope storage space Access to large lecture rooms

The End