2015 National Executive Board Election Candidate for Vice President
Gordon P. Ramsey
Professor of Physics
Loyola University, Chicago
Chicago, IL 60626
gpr@anl.gov
Education
B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale;
M.S. and Ph.D., Physics, Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional Experience
Loyola University Chicago, Professor of Physics (1982-present);
Argonne Laboratory, Resident Scientist (1986-present);
Instructor, Illinois Institute of Technology (1980-81), Roosevelt University, (1978-1980), University of Maryland, European Division, Germany, (1974-1977).
Memberships
AAPT Life Member, Chicago AAPT, Illinois AAPT, APS.
AAPT Activities
AAPT Fellow, Distinguished Service Citation, Chicago Section Representative, Secretary of Section Representatives, Editorial Board, AJP Resource Letters and TPT, Interests of Senior Physicists Committee Chair (2012), AAPT Representative to US Liaison Committee (2008-14), Executive Board At Large (2007-2010), Committee on International Education (Chair, 2005-06, 1997-98), AAPT Bauder Funding for the "Third Eye" Demonstration Show from China (Guelph), AAPT Nominating Committee (1999), Chicago Section Nominating Committee (1994-present), Computers in Physics Committee (1987-90), Vice President and President, Chicago Section (1983-84).
Other Activities
Research in science anxiety, high energy physics and musical acoustics;Sujack Outstanding Teacher Award (2006), AP Physics workshop coordinator (2002-present),middle school teacher workshops (2003-present), Proviso township middle school science teacher mentor (2005-06);keynote speaker, "International Conference on Science Education", Kobe, Japan (1997);NSF high school teacher workshops in physics (1993-96) and Young Scholars Program for high school students (1986-98).
Commentary
AAPT has made progress in improving physics teaching through its programs. We had input in establishing NGSS standards. Teacher development has improved through workshops. AAPT journals and meetings are beneficial to teachers at all levels. There is much to be done. Outreach programs can be developed to involve teachers in levels K-16, including professional development, curriculum and program development. Workshops can be initiated on implementing NGSS standards in classrooms. Local sections can promote connections between local physics teachers at all levels. National AAPT can increase services to sections, including improved communication with members and the general public. AAPT should coordinate efforts with professional groups such as APS and NSTA and enhance international cooperation via membership exchanges, conferences and communication. A wealth of talent exists in AAPT and working together, we can continue to improve physics education at all levels.