Fundamentals of optical and photonics including lens theory, basics of imaging, microscopes and telescopes, 2-dimensional Fourier Transforms, optical coherence, interferometry, lasers, laser phase noise and laser linewidth.
4
UnitsLetter
Grading1, 2, 3
PasstimeUndergraduate students only
Level LimitEngineering
CollegeShe rambles A LOT in lectures. Also, I literally quoted something she said from lecture in an exam, and she circled it and put a question mark (and I assume marks points off), which is annoying. This is not the class to take for an easy A. 7 reading responses (2-500 words), in-person midterm w/ study guide, 5-pg paper, and an in-person final.
I feel like a lot of these ratings on her teaching style are unfair, I thoroughly enjoyed her class and she has an obvious passion for teaching. I would recommend using her office hours as she will help you shape your essays and is clear with what she wants. I would definitely take her again given the opportunity, but a lot of writing and readings.
She's very enthusiastic about the class topic, but I'd say she's TOO enthusiastic. She gets so excited about the topic that she rambles and mumbles and gets lost herself. Her lectures are boring and don't help you pass, you'll have to really read the books (one book for lecture and another for the section). BUT she's really sweet and accessible.
Blumenthal is a nice person, and is very knowledgeable about history, but a terrible lecturer. Lectures are a waste of time, and Blumenthal will often talk herself in circles. Reads off a piece of paper the majority of lecture. The class itself isn't too difficult, 2 papers, 1 midterm and final that are IDs and essay(s).