Search - Ultimate Physics 2 Tutor -- Volume 1 (Thermodynamics) -- 3 DVD Set! -- 10 Hour Course! on DVD

The Best There Is

Time Keeper | 11/30/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I'm a 59 year old Ph.D. in physicist with my own very successful research corporation. But what has bothered me throughout the past 30 years is how much I forgot due to non-use; or worse yet, what I did not take the time to learn properly due to academic work load, life problems, or pressures of one kind or another.

Well, after I discovered Mr. Gibson's DVD series in math and physics, I set myself to a course of completely reviewing all of my undergrad physics and math; if for no other reason, than to `feel' like a `complete' physicist. Literally, I bought every one of his DVDs (except for some on basic math) and am here to say that in my opinion, there is nothing like them anywhere; and especially, in universities today. These DVDs approach the subject matter in a pedagogical and not phenomenological way. Meaning, you learn by example, and hence have an immediate grasp of the principles which can then be applied to more sophisticated problems. I especially recommend all of his math DVDs from algebra up through advanced calculus, and his thermodynamics course (to date).

If you want to LEARN what math and physics are really about, and how to use them to solve serious, high level ground breaking physical problems, then I STRONGLY suggest that you get these DVDs. Textbooks are one thing. They purport to `teach' you the necessary theory and then apply it to practical applications. But I have to tell you that even when I was at university in the 1960s I never found this to be the case. It was as if the authors of those books were more in love with their own knowledge and intent on impressing young students with that knowledge, than they were in teaching a given discipline. And they cloaked this `approach' under that most infamous of phrases, "...what we give here is a rigorous approach to the subject..." To be sure, "rigor" is necessary - but ONLY AFTER you understand the principles and KNOW how to apply them to real world problems.

Today, it's the opposite: physics AND math texts look like cartoon books - the pictures, illustrations, graphs, even the `blocked out' equations appear in so many colors, one gets dizzy just flipping through the pages. Not to mention their overstating and overstating the obvious to such an extent, that they confuse even the simplest of physical concepts.

As it was decades ago, if you want to survive your academic `experience' and graduate, you'd better take your life in your own hands and do what needs to be done. Not just to `pass' your math and physics courses, but to UNDERSTAND them and the math that lies behind them. And in my opinion, the ONLY way to accomplish this is through these DVDs (I also STRONGLY recommend that you use the Problem Solver series as well for more advanced problems, since they give step by step solutions. Forget about the Schaums: as a rule, their authors are still trying to `impress' the reader with what they know instead of providing a reasonably complete - not extensive - outline of the subject matter and then give graded levels of problems so the student can apply the theory to those problems. This is what they `say' they are intended to do. I have never found that to be the case. Rather, their presenting a disorganized mélange of material is more to the point. Remember: just because a book is popular, doesn't mean it is the best, or even that it/they do the job they say they do.)

In short, study these DVDs FIRST, and do ALL problems that Mr. Gibson gives in those DVDs. Second, study the corresponding sections in your class textbook, and work all relevant problems there. And THIRD, work ALL similar problems in a corresponding Problem Solver. Do this, and you will not only pass your exams with flying colors, you will actually UNDERSTAND WHAT you are doing, and WHY you are doing it. Now, wouldn't that be refreshing?

"

Wish I had this set for my Physics II class!

C. O'Rourke | New England | 01/16/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I bought the Physics I set and can't say enough about how Gibson teaches in these DVDs. Even as an older student, I found my professor was completely useless and I need to find my own way in succeeding with this subject (that I hate as well). Some how I stumbled on these DVDs and swear they contributed to my getting a decent B in my Physics I class. I was so beside myself when I found out there wasn't a set that covered my next semester, so I e-mail Mr. Gibson. About a day later, Jason e-mailed me back personally and told me that the second Physics set was to come out in the Fall of 2008....I needed it for my Spring 2008 class!!! Oh the horror, what was I going to do?!! Well, I did without and got a C :(

All of you are lucky to have the whole set now - so get them - you won't be sorry and you'll improve your grade! I wish I knew about him earlier when I had to take all my math courses."

Wonderful 10-hour course

Superman | Phoenix, AZ | 12/06/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I own the DVDs and I felt compelled to write a review. I was stunned by the great quality of the presentation and of the author's profound knowledge in what he teaches.

Definitelly an excellent and wise purchace for those who are interested in the subject."

Very accessible...valuable teaching aid

R. Roylance | 02/16/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"My background is in physics and chemistry, but there are certain areas (like thermodynamics) that I don't use on a continual basis. As a result, some fundamental concepts become a little "fuzzy" over the years. These DVDs are great for both students and professionals to familiarize (refamiliarize) themselves with fundamental concepts.

The best part about these DVDs is that they're entertaining and enjoyable.
The problems are clever, but straight forward...they definitely help reinforce the concepts.

I will certainly continue to buy more..."