Faculty Profile
David Jackson
Professor of Physics and Astronomy (2001)
Contact Information
Tome Scientific Building
717-245-1073
Bio
Dr. Jackson did his graduate work in pattern formation and non-linear dynamics, focusing mainly on interfacial instabilities of magnetic fluids in applied magnetic fields. In addition to continuing this work, he has an avid interest in physics education, and co-authored a textbook for non-science students titled, "Explorations in Physics." As part of a recent curricular reform effort, Dr. Jackson co-developed a series of single-photon quantum mechanics experiments for use at Dickinson, and is now working to incorporate computation as a core part of the physics program. He is also collaborating with Cengage Learning to develop a series of Interactive Video Vignettes for use in introductory physics classes. Dr. Jackson has received numerous external grants to support his work. Additionally, along with colleagues Priscilla W. Laws and Scott V. Franklin, he received the first Science Prize for Inquiry-Based Instruction in 2012 from Science magazine. He was editor-in-chief of the American Journal of Physics from 2011-2017 and currently acts as the journal's video abstracts editor. Dr. Jackson is a 2018 recipient of the Homer L. Dodge Citation for Distinguished Service to the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT), and was awarded the Association's 2019 David Halliday and Robert Resnick Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Physics Teaching.
Education
- B.S., University of Washington, 1989
- M.A., Princeton University, 1991
- Ph.D., 1994
2026-2027 Academic Year
Fall 2026
PHYS 131 Workshop Physics
An introduction to classical mechanics using an inquiry-based, hands-on approach that combines cooperative learning with the use of computer tools for data acquisition, analysis, and mathematical modeling. Both analytic and numerical calculations are introduced for characterizing motion. A selection of kinesthetic experiments is included to enhance student learning. Topics include kinematics, Newton's laws of motion, gravitation, conservation laws, and rotational motion. Recommended for physical science, mathematics, and pre-engineering students and for biology majors preparing for graduate study. Three two-hour sessions per week. Because of the similarity in course content, students will not receive graduation credit for both 131 and 141. Prerequisite: Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in, MATH 151 or 170.
PHYS 141 Physics for the Life Sciences
Introductory, non-calculus physics, principally for life science and pre-med students. Topics include mechanics, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics. Three one-hour lectures and one three-hour lab per week. Because of the similarity in course content, students will not receive graduation credit for both 131 and 141.
PHYS 361 Computational Physics
This course is designed to give students an introduction to computational techniques and simulations in physics using the Open Source Physics Library. A significant fraction of the students' time will be spent actually programming specific physics problems rather than learning abstract techniques. Students should therefore be prepared to learn by doing.
Spring 2027
PHYS 132 Workshop Physics
Workshop Physics: Matter and Fields
An introduction to thermal physics and electromagnetism using an inquiry-based, hands-on approach that combines cooperative learning with the use of computer tools for data acquisition, analysis, and mathematical modeling. Both analytic and numerical calculations are introduced for characterizing motion. A selection of kinesthetic experiments is included to enhance student learning. Topics include heat, temperature, phases of matter, kinetic theory, and heat engines; electric and magnetic fields, forces on charged particles, electrical circuits, and Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s law; an introduction to Maxwell’s equations and electromagnetic waves.
Three two-hour sessions per week. (Students enrolled in Physics 132 who have completed Mathematics 170 are encouraged to continue their mathematics preparation while taking physics by enrolling in Mathematics 171.) Because of the similarity in course content, students will not receive graduation credit for both 132 and 142. Prerequisite: 131 and completion of, or concurrent enrollment in MATH 170.
PHYS 282 Intro to Theoretical Physics
A rigorous survey of mathematical topics and techniques that are commonly used in theoretical physics. Topics include vector analysis, differential equations, power series, linear algebra, tensors, and vector calculus (gradient, divergence, curl, line integrals, and so on). The primary focus of this course is on solving problems as a means to improve students’ confidence and understanding of mathematics within the context of physical systems. Prerequisite: 132 and MATH 171.