Hands On Laboratory Projects For Non Science Majors: Learning Principles Of Physics In The Context Of Everyday Technology.

A set of hands-on laboratory projects has been developed for undergraduates who are not majoring in science or engineering. The projects are intended to help explain the principles of physics to non-science majors. The projects explore both the technological and scientific aspects of familiar technological devices, and demonstrate how technology incorporates a scientific understanding of nature. All projects result in tangible evidence of accomplishment such as construction of a simple radio, a loudspeaker, a one-octave electronic keyboard, and a compact disc-to-cassette tape adapter. The projects are made from inexpensive and simple materials so that each student can take home the working device. It was expected that projects which the students take home serve to amplify the impact of the work to include peers and family members. None of the projects require specialized equipment or facilities, and all of the projects can be modified to suit different institutional circumstances. General characteristics of the types of projects that were found to be effective for the target audience of non-science students are also summarized.