An intensive short course in fluid dynamics

This talk reports on an intensive short course in fluid dynamics held recently at the Univ. of Alberta, with an emphasis on the pedagogical objectives and experiences that might be of general interest and utility. The intensive, one week course was intended to introduce students at the undergraduate and beginning graduate level to the topic. No previous exposure to fluid dynamics was assumed. The format consisted of three, 80 minute lectures and one laboratory session per day. Five lecturers (N. Balmforth, M. Flynn, I. Frigaard, G. M. Homsy, B. Sutherland, and R. Sydora) gave 2-3 lectures each, covering a range of topics. Each of three experimental and three computational labs were done by all the students during the week, working in groups of three. This talk will contain details on the lectures, labs, student feedback, and lessons learned, especially with respect to the level of presentations, preparation of labs, and dealing with the diverse backgrounds of the students.