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Re: percent success



We've discussed the 5% that become physics majors and the 95% that don't, but
I think we also need to consider the 90+% of the total population that never
take a physics class at all. Clearly, we can't claim to serve them very well.
There must be some reason they avoid us. Word must be out on the street that
physics classes are bad news. Who put the word out and why? Do we care?
Can or should we do anything about it.



Some of us try to address part of the other 99.5% of the population with
various projects (outreach, workshops, museums, "dog and pony" shows, et
al). Rarely are those efforts recognized in the promotion packages our
collegues design. I once asked a Vice President if "A balance of Research,
teaching and community service meant: 95% research, 4% teaching and 1%
outreach." Since he was addressing a teaching effectiveness seminar, his
answer was anything but reality.

The numbers just remind me how egocentric we are...Being a member of a
group of 1/2 % of the population may explain much of our social ineptitude.
At least we can find comfort if we are in the 95% of the 1/2 % (publish or
perish). Think how difficult it is for a member of our 1/2% minority to
engage in teaching or outreach. (smile)

Karl

____________________________________________________________________________
Dr. Karl I. Trappe Desk:(512)471-4152
Physics Dept-Mail Stop C1600 Office: (512) 471-5411
The University of Texas at Austin FAX: (512) 471-9637 (other building)
Austin, Texas 78712-1081 E-Mail:trappe@physics.utexas.edu
____________________________________________________________________________