Ron Henderson

Ron.Henderson@mtsu.edu

Ron Henderson

Physics & Astronomy

Master Classroom

WPS 312-316

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The Physics and Astronomy department uses high-impact interactive engagement in all introductory physics courses. Students work in groups of four in twice weekly labs to conduct physics experiments that require laptop computers, software, and electronic sensors to record and analyze data. Approximately 1200 students complete these courses each year, supporting students in Mechatronics Engineering, Aerospace, Pre-Health, and other science disciplines. The Wiser-Patten Science building houses six physics laboratories, which require a combined 56 laptops (eight laptops in each of five labs, plus sixteen in one space that serves as a dual purpose physics / astronomy laboratory). While the renovation of WPS yielded an incredible result for which the department is very appreciative, no funds were available for the purchase of computers, even though the department expanded from two to six physics teaching labs. We have managed our computer needs since returning to WPS by using department funds over two fiscal years to purchase 24 new laptops, and by using a number of hand-me-down laptops from Biology that are now nine years old and outdated. This proposal is to replace the remaining 32 outdated laptops (56 minus 24) in introductory physics laboratories. The necessary software, sensors, and data acquisition hardware has already been purchased by the department. Physics and Astronomy installer can network the laptops, no new infrastructure is needed, and warranty costs are included in the quote.