Building Strong Mathematical Backgrounds in Physics Part II: From Deeper Learning to Maturity

As students continue to mature as physicists and engage with more complex mathematical concepts, they often struggle to connect previous coursework to new topics that build upon prerequisite material. We present modifications to course structure as students advance through our undergraduate degree program in physics. In the second course on Mathematical Methods in Physics, we continue to emphasize regular low-stakes assessments of student knowledge, clear expectations of performance, and availability of course resources. However, we shift to a smaller set of broader learning objectives and the option to retake high-stakes midterm exams to emphasize the growth mindset of learning complex topics in physics and mathematics. We present our qualitative findings from this course and discuss ideas for future implementation in upper-division physics courses.