What are the main objectives of the course?

"Science isn't frightening! This course tells you the science in everyday life."

The three-credit course (PHYS0607) is designed for students who are curious about science in daily life. Students taking this course should have basic training in physics in the certificate level. Both the logical understanding and the appreciation of science are emphasized with mathematics kept at a minimum. Students are trained to develop scientific intuition and to understand that many "magical" things in everyday life can be predictable.

This course focuses on the science around us, providing an opportunity for layman to understand the "magic" behind the daily objects. The course emphasizes on training of the scientific intuition and logical thinking of students not by memorizing fact, but instead by stimulating them through the objects and phenomena they encounter in everyday life. Students are expected to participate actively in the tutorial classes. Assessment methods include the continuous assessment (50%) and a one-hour written examination (50%). The former is comprised by assignments (25%) and presentation (25%).

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students should be able to:

• describe and discuss the physical principles that are behind the household appliances and the scientific issues in daily life
• demonstrate their knowledge to related topics qualitatively
• criticize and express views in logical and effective ways
• recognize the significance of science and technology

The course is self-contained and comprehensive, starting from fundamental knowledge and progressing to their daily applications. Knowledge in physics is not essential. Daily appliances are explored with simple and lucid explanations. The course covers the following topics.

Title page