Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
What is a Physics Teachers, Postsecondary?
Physics teachers at the postsecondary level are educators who specialize in instructing students in the principles and theories of physics. They typically work in colleges and universities, where they teach undergraduate and graduate courses, conduct research, and mentor students pursuing advanced degrees. Their responsibilities may include developing course materials, delivering lectures, facilitating laboratory sessions, and assessing student performance through examinations and projects. Additionally, postsecondary physics teachers are often involved in scholarly research, contributing to advancements in the field and publishing their findings in academic journals. They play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and educators, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills among their students.
Tasks
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, and papers.
- Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
- Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as quantum mechanics, particle physics, and optics.
- Maintain regularly scheduled office hours to advise and assist students.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
-
Word processing software
- Google Docs
- Google Docs
- Overleaf
- Microsoft Word 365
- Development environment software
- Computer based training software
- Electronic mail software
Tools Used
- Lasers
- Microphones
- Parabolic mirrors
- Televisions
- Portable data input terminals
Knowledge
-
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
-
Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
-
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
-
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
-
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Skills
-
Instructing
Teaching others how to do something.
-
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
-
Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
-
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
-
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Abilities
-
Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
-
Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
-
Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
-
Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
-
Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
-
Doctoral degree
-
Master's degree
-
Post-doctoral training
Work Activities
-
Training and Teaching Others
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
-
Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
-
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
-
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
-
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Evaluate student work.
- Develop instructional materials.
- Administer tests to assess educational needs or progress.
- Prepare tests.
- Teach physical science or mathematics courses at the college level.
Work Interests
-
Social
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
-
Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$55150.0 - $171820.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.