A method has been developed to measure the swing period of a simple pendulum automatically. The pendulum position is converted into a signal frequency by employing a simple electronic circuit that detects the intensity of infrared light reflected by the pendulum. The signal produced by the electronic circuit is sent to the microphone port and…

Discusses the potential impact of microcomputers on physics computer-assisted learning in the United Kingdom. Explains some available systems, their requirements, advantages, problems, and the cost involved. (GA)

Discusses the procedures of using operational amplifiers to conduct student projects and teach physical phenomena such as oscillation, radioactive decay, terminal velocity, projectile and ball bouncing. (CC)

Summarized are the key features of the revolution in electronics, namely (1) capacity, (2) cost, (3) speed, and (4) size. Outlined also are some possible implications for the future with particular reference to telecommunications, medical services and education. (CS)

Discusses the increased overlap in both the content and methods of teaching physics and "craft, design and technology" (CDT) in Great Britain. Describes the move toward the inclusion of CDT in the examinations for the General Certificate of Secondary Education. Provides suggestions for a proposed course in CDT. (TW)

Introduces three physics experiments for high school and college classes. Topics include measuring the ratio of heat capacities using a microcomputer and a glass syringe, producing large electric sparks using a variation of a Leyden bucket, and observing transmission line behavior using television signals. Includes descriptions of materials and…