I grew up in Michigan and graduated from Wellesley College with a degree in Physics and major hours in Philosophy. At Boston University I earned my masters and Ph.D. in Physics. My theoretical thesis was in the area of mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics.I have both theoretical and experimental interests in physics and have done experimental studies in fluids at high pressure and in domestic flat panel solar energy systems augmented with mirrors. Theoretically I have done computer modeling of these same domestic flat panel solar systems looking for maximal configurations. My most current interests are in developing solutions to quantum and classical problems using MAPLE and in pedagogical issues in introductory physics courses. I have also been very involved in gender issues of women in science. Because of these interests I have directed a Department of Energy funded science summer camp at Pacific for middle school girls for the past four years and a national conference on the retention and recruitment of women in physics. I am also very active in state and national organizations concerned with the teaching of physics.I came to Oregon in 1978 with my husband - an Oregon native - and discovered the wonderful institution of Pacific University. Here small classes, an involved faculty, and interesting students have made my teaching life very satisfying. This year I am just coming back from sabbatical and am excited about the dramatic changes I am making in three courses: Quantum Mechanics, Classical Mechanics, and General Physics - the introductory calculus based physics course renamed - Workshop Physics. Quantum Mechanics and Classical Mechanics will be taught using MAPLE as a problem solving tool, and both will have a computer lab associated with them. In the labs MAPLE and other computer programs will be used to develop new problem solving skills and deepen conceptual understanding. In Workshop Physics there will be no lectures. Students will spend three two hour lab periods a week doing experiments, analyzing data, modeling data, solving problems, and developing conceptual understandings of fundamental physics concepts. I am also looking forward to continuing my research with Jik-kang Son on classical mechanics problems which are amenable to MAPLE solutions and on which such solutions give insight into the physical problem. In addition to my love of physics I like to run regularly, play classical piano, love fiction and mysteries, and have become a sports enthusiast due to my sons' involvement in sports.

Last updated: 5/28/97
Physics Web Master: wienerr@pacificu.edu