August 1, 2014 (Vol. 34, No. 14)

URL:
http://www.worldscienceu.com

Rating:
Strong Points: Nicely designed site, good course materials
Weak Points: Only two courses currently offered

Summary:

String theory, the Higgs particle, and special relativity…these topics are not exactly thought to be a light workload for the brain. Dr. Brian Greene, professor of physics and mathematics at Columbia University, recognizes how daunting these concepts are and has therefore set out to make them more accessible to university students and “lifelong learners” via the online education platform, World Science U. The content on World Science U is divided into three types: the “science unplugged” section provides short answers to a number questions related to topics in physics and mathematics, whereas the “short courses” and “university courses” sections provide free access to either 2–3 week or 8–10 week courses, respectively. Unfortunately, there are currently only two courses available (the “space, time, and Einstein” short course and the “special relativity” university course), but at least four others are listed as “in development.” Despite its limited offerings at the moment, World Science U seems to have the potential to be a great online science education resource.

Previous articleThe Body Transparent: Tissue Clearing Lays Fine Structures Bare
Next articleFive Websites You Need to Bookmark: August Picks