MIT Subject Evaluations

8.284: Modern Astrophysics
Fall 1998 Summary

Lecturer: Professor Paul Schechter

Enrollment: 9
Number of students commenting: 5

8.284 is an introductory-level undergraduate physics course which assumes no prior astronomy knowledge. The course discusses the applications of physics to celestial bodies.

Class members found the course content fascinating, if fast; one particularly liked the sections on galaxy kinematics and cosmology. Another, however, found the class very difficult and made too many assumptions. Some found themselves getting lost in abstract derivations, and wanted to see less hand-waving. One class member commented that the readings were not applicable. Another felt that the practice problem sets were irrelevant to the course. A third felt that the homework was not particularly relevant to the lectures.

Class members had fairly positive comments about the lecturer, Professor Paul Schechter. They felt that he was well-prepared, enthusiastic, approachable, and knowledgeable. Although they appreciated his style of presentation, students thought he moved through the class too quickly. Also, some disliked his blackboard technique; one student commented that it was disorganized, and another felt that he put equations on the the board without motivation. Students wanted to see him be more available, or to have other resources outside of class to go to. One class member commented that he was not particularly motivating.

Overall, class members seemed to enjoy the material in the course, and in general liked the style of the lectures. The major complaints centered around the abstract derivations and the lack of connectivity within the course. In general, those taking the course seemed to enjoy it.

A few quotes from class members:

"Good teaching method, but tends to go a bit fast and over our heads."

"At times I got a bit lost in derivations and complicated formulae. A reminder of the overall goal or relevance of a derivation might be good."