Rate My Professor David Michaels

David Michaels serves as the Department Chair and Professor of Physics and Astronomy at College of the Canyons, located on the Valencia Campus in Santa Clarita, California. In this leadership role within the School of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering, he oversees the Physics program, coordinates faculty efforts, and contributes to academic governance. His office is in SCOH-306E, accessible by phone at 661-362-5030. Professor Michaels is committed to delivering high-quality instruction in physics and astronomy to community college students pursuing diverse educational goals.

Professor Michaels teaches key courses such as PHYSIC 101: Introductory Physics, which introduces fundamental concepts like motion, forces, energy, and waves to non-science majors; PHYSICS 220: Physics for Scientists and Engineers: The Mechanics of Solids and Fluids, a calculus-based course covering Newtonian mechanics, solids, and fluid dynamics for STEM-bound students; ASTRON 100: Survey of General Astronomy, offering a broad overview of celestial objects and the universe; and ASTRON 101: Stellar and Galactic Evolution, delving into star formation, life cycles, and galactic structures. These courses are offered in both in-person and online formats, with comprehensive orientation materials detailing syllabi, textbooks, grading policies, and campus resources. His teaching approach supports student success through clear expectations and available assistance. Academically, Professor Michaels expresses interest in the story of the universe and names Richard Feynman, celebrated for quantum electrodynamics and insightful lectures, as his favorite physicist. As Department Chair and Program Chair for Physics, he engages in faculty senate activities, including serving on the Academic Senate and chairing tenure committees. He promotes faculty wellness through FLEX professional development, such as pickleball sessions. Professor Michaels also leads outreach efforts, including star parties at the Canyon Country Campus on topics like the Apollo 11 anniversary and rocket science, enhancing public engagement with physics and astronomy.