Nick's ePortfolio

 Elementary Physics

Phys 1010-004 

Howard G Demars, Spring Semester 2011

          A variety of topics were available in this class to choose from. A Bibliography, Title page and other strict
formatting was required, but the content was largely up to the student. I wanted to explore the mystery of Dark
Energy, because I am actually using it in a science fiction novel I am writing. I picked up a few books at the
college library and used government websites as my sources.

Reflection 

          This class has been a satisfying one for me. An upbringing filled with super-heroes and science fiction 
shows will leave just about anyone curious about how the natural physics of the world work. This class (and 
this assignment) have (in part) satisfied my mild curiosity in this field of science, but also provided me with 
insights on how to improve my every-day life a little more. These include new truths I have learned about how 
to save better on my energy bill, incorporate laws of motion to be a safer driver, work-out smarter, be a better
cook and prepare for the weather a little better with thermodynamics, and understand (and have a greater
appreciation for) the world around me. I believe that now, because I have a better competence in this field, my
life is all the better for it, and I am able to enjoy the simple workings of the world around me in a new light.

 
          The Subject of this Assignment was "Dark Energy" and in the creation of this assignment, I have learned 
how to write a paper in the APA format, site web based references legitimately, and use quotes effectively. Most
of all, I was able to learn about a topic which I was deeply curious about in a degree that only writing a paper
like this would require.

          The "Salt Lake Community College Learning Outcomes" I found as a result of this project are first, to 
"Develop the knowledge and skills to... work with others in a professional and constructive manor," and second,
to "Develop quantitative literacies necessary for [my] chosen field of study." I believe that both of these
outcomes are related for me in this class and for this project. Taking this course has given me a basic aptitude
for basic scientific truths that are applicable in my every-day life. This not only benefits me in terms of
convenience, but also places me in a better position to solve every-day problems which arise in the work place
and in other unexpected situations.

Nicholas Burk
April 19, 2011