Frequently on this list over many years now there have been debates and
differences of opinion which seem to be generated by the fact that there
are at least two camps amongst our members. One seems to be teaching to
"make physicists." The other is worried about what we're doing to everyone
else who experiences instruction on physics topics. This is my
characterization.
For those who can handle it, there is a very interesting book which I think
provides very interesting insight on the former group. It is by Jan
Nespoor. It is titled: Knowledge in Motion. It is published by Falmer
Press, 1994.
It may provide insight as to why the former group does not understand the
latter and why the former group seems always to argue from special cases
rather than the general case. If this is opaque, then the book might make
it a little more clear. It's a pretty quick read, but this too is sobering
in my view.
Dewey
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Dewey I. Dykstra, Jr. Phone: (208)385-3105
Professor of Physics Dept: (208)385-3775
Department of Physics/SN318 Fax: (208)385-4330
Boise State University dykstrad@varney.idbsu.edu
1910 University Drive Boise Highlanders
Boise, ID 83725-1570 novice piper
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