| Q: Where
should I go to find out more about this course? A: http://www2.fizik.usm.my/tlyoon/teaching/ZCE111/1011SEM2/ Q: What is ZCE 111 about? A: Its about using computers as a tool to explore physics. In particular it uses numerical methods to solve physics problems that are difficult to solve analytically. It intends to expose students to some common but powerful computational tools used in many areas, esp. in physics and engineering applications to solve real problems. Q: Why I never heard about this course before? A: This is a new course created and commence only in the second semester in academic session 2010/11. Q: What's the difference between ZCE 111 and MAT 181? A: MAT 181 is an introductory C++ programming course. MAT 181 emphasis more on programming but less on application to physics problems. ZCE 111 is a physics course which emphasis is not on programming but in solving physics problem numerically using Mathematica, a poweful software package. Q: Is this a programming course? A: No. It is a physics cousre. See above. Q: What is the programming language used? A: Mathematica. To know more about what it is, click on the Mathematica link. Q: I know nothing about programming. Can I take this course? A: Yes. The course assumes no prior knowledge about programming. Q: Is this course boring and difficult? A: No. Unlike other theory courses, it is a very interesting course where you have a lot of great oppertunity to do some hands-on practices in front of the computer. Any task will become difficult if you never attempt it ardently. Any task will become easy if you attempt it ardently. |
Q: What's the benefit of
this course? A: Good employability. The computational and other computer-related skill you shall earn from this course give you an edge over others who have not. Furthermore, this is a very practical course in which you learn how to use computer to solve real problems numerically. Such technical skill is definitely a powerful tool you can apply to many problem solving scenarios, be it in your future research work or in your job. Q: Who should take this course? A: Anyone who wishes to equip him/herself with a very practical skill set to solve technical problems using the computational power of computers for future research and those who wish to upgrade their competativeness in terms of job marketability. Q: Who should not take this course? A: Those who do not belong to the categories mentioned in the FAQ above. Q: Should I take this course? A: Ask yourself after you have read the answers to the above two FAQs. Q: How are students evaluated in this course? A: 100% coursework. No final exam. Students will be evaluated continuously by completing assignments and small projects. Q: To whom is this course intended? First year, second year, or third year students? A: Preferene is given to those who have had already taken MAT 181, but the requirement is not mandatory. In principle students from all years are welcomed, but second year students are encouraged (again, this is not mandatory). Due to limited computer facility and space, only a maximum of 50 students is allowed to enroll. Q: I am a first year student in my second semester. I am taking MAT 181 this semester. Can I still take ZCE 111? A: Yes, if your credit hours have not exceeded the maximum allowed. Q: Where will the course be conducted? A: In computer lab, school of physics. |