Addresses issues related to the use of microcomputers for solving problems. Includes considerations of the impact of software availability, the nature of software for chemical education, general-purpose software, and dedicated software. (JN)

Describes 17 situations in physics which require students to write computer programs to solve. All the projects are general in nature and require students to have a thorough conceptual understanding of the content to apply the algorithm needed to solve the specific type of problem illustrated. (JN)

A program which offers the principal advantages of individualized problem sequences and interactive remedial assistance, and runs in a format that allows one machine to serve more students than the common types of computer-based exercises, is described. Copies of the program listing are available from the creator. (MP)

An interactive computer program in microbial genetics is described. The simulation allows students to work at their own pace and develop understanding of microbial techniques as they choose donor bacterial strains, specify selective media, and interact with demonstration experiments. Sample questions and outputs are included. (DH)

TK!Solver is a general purpose problem-solving tool allowing users to enter sets of equations that characterize problem areas in a variety of mathematically-oriented fields (finance, engineering, physics, economics). Indicates that this latest version alleviates problems found in the initial version, in particular with speed, now faster in all…

Discusses the use of microcomputers and software as problem-solving tools, including comments on "TK! Solver," automatic problem-solving program (reviewed in detail on pp.84-86 in this same issue). Also discusses problem-solving approaches to bridge the disciplines, such as music/physics, junior high science/mathematics (genetics),…

"TK!Solver" was designed as a personal computing tool to solve problems involving mathematical calculations and analysis. An in-depth review of this model building and problem-solving package is provided. System commands, applications (including data lists, plots/graphs, iterative problem-solving, present values), and other areas are…

Provides rationale for and description of an acid rain game (designed for two players), a problem-solving model for elementary students. Although complete instructions are provided, including a copy of the game board, the game is also available for Apple II microcomputers. Information for the computer program is available from the author.…

Provides abstracts of five papers presented at the Fourth Annual Microcomputers in Education Conference. Papers considered microcomputers in science laboratories, Apple II Plus/e computer-assisted instruction in chemistry, computer solutions for space mechanics concerns, computer applications to problem solving and hypothesis testing, and…

Evaluates two computer programs for Apple II which provide drill and practice in Newton's laws of motion and in work-energy relationships. Student performance is recorded on the diskette allowing the teacher to view the number of questions completed and percentage correct. (JM)

Authors discuss how computer laboratory interfacing has revolutionized their nonscience-major introductory chemistry course. Discusses the advantages of doing away with the "cookbook" approach to laboratory experimentation. Presents an evaluation of the course approach including the finding that over 75 percent of the students felt that…

Input from constructivist scholars and science teachers helps develop future biologists and biology teachers who better understand scientific investigation through their development and use of investigative software, as well as through laboratory and field activities. (SM)

Several directions for potential research efforts in the field of computer-based education (CBE) are discussed. (For the purposes of this paper, CBE is defined as any use of computers to promote learning with no intended inference as to the specific nature or organization of the educational application under discussion.) Efforts should be directed…

Promotes the use of computer modelling in physics instruction. Describes Dynamic Modelling System (DMS) and the procedures employed in applying it to problem solving in physics. Provides fundamental information on BASIC language and techniques for using DMS. (ML)

Evaluates reading/language arts, mathematics, general problem-solving, science, social studies, creative arts, foreign languages, computer literacy, and audio-visual author software. Also lists and describes criteria used in the evaluation. (Equipment specifications and sources of software are included.) (JN)