Computation - PICUP
Computation is an integral part of scientific research. It allows us to gather, analyze and visualize data, control experimental equipment, and model complex systems. In physics, modeling a complex system involves translating a physical model into computational tasks, choosing and applying appropriate algorithms, and analyzing the results. At the University of St. Thomas, computational physics is used in all fields of research (Complexity and Emergence, Astrophysics, Musical Acoustics, Optics, Non-linear Dynamics and Chaos).
Recognizing the importance of computational skills in research and industry, the University of St. Thomas Physics Department has been at the forefront of integrating computation into the physics curriculum through several grant-funded projects and through work with the Partnership for Integration of Computation into Undergraduate Physics (PICUP).
PICUP is a national organization of faculty with the mission of creating a vibrant community of educators, a forum for open discussion, a collection of educational resources, and a set of strategies and tactics that support the development and improvement of undergraduate physics education through integration of computation across its curriculum. PICUP maintains an online collection of instructional resources to help faculty integrate computation into their courses. In addition, PICUP organizes online meetings and faculty development workshops in which participants learn about ways in which to integrate computation into their courses.