Physics Large Course Redesign Project Introductory-level Algebra-based and Calculus-based Physics I and Physics II Pedram Leilabady, Yildirim Aktas, Awad Gerges, Aditi Sharma

Back in 2010 … Reached enrollment capacity (40% increase in 5 years) – Enrollment: 2,500 per academic year could not accommodate enrolment increase without adding new sections  New Faculty + New Large Lecture Hall Reached student outcome limit – DFW rates ~30% Traditional format: Direct Cost: $134 per student Lecture HWQuiz

Redesign ….. Break down student learning process into multiple well defined, small and manageable steps, each with clear goals and deliverables and deadlines Introduce the concept of pre-lecture study and switch to a more interactive learning technique Provide a weekly feedback mechanism for self assessment Create small-group settings to encourage dialogue and discussion Make course material available 24/7 (lecture notes, demonstration videos, practice problems, etc.)

Blended Course Format TA-run Problem Solving Sessions Total of 40 Problem Solving sessions per semester  10 TA’s

Student Survey

Pilot Program Observable improvement in student performance – Final Exam, Test Scores, Homework  improved DFW rates Positive student response – Mid-semester survey & Course evaluations Increased enrollment cap by 45% – Can serve up to 4,000 students per year Reduced cost per student by 31% – $92 per student (Faculty + TA-line) compared with $134 Eliminated the need for additional large lecture halls

Sustainability … Implementation and success of program highly dependent on having dedicated TA-lines – Need to recruit competent domestic graduate students – Need budget to hire competitively nationwide