An interactive, instructional videodisc was produced using films on wave motion/vibrations and Tacoma Narrows bridge collapse. The disc is appropriate for three levels of physics (physics/algebra; physics/calculus; non-major physics). Program sections (introduction to videodisc player, bridge collapse, influence of wind, bridge properties, and…

General principles of computer graphics are reviewed, including discussions of display hardware, geometric modeling, algorithms, and applications in science, computer-aided design, flight training, communications, business, art, and entertainment. (JN)

Presents 11 short descriptions on the applications of computers in chemistry classrooms and laboratories, including among others, using microcomputer graphics to teach quantum theory, a versatile and inexpensive instrument/computer interface, and a microcomputer-controlled scintillation spectrometer. (JN)

Describes a portable fluid power engineering laboratory and class demonstration apparatus designed to enable students to design, build, and test multi-actuator circuits. Features a variety of standard pneumatic values and actuators fitted with quick disconnect couplings. Discusses sequencing circuit boards, microcomputer control, cost, and…

At Boston College (Massachusetts), chemistry faculty are incorporating advanced technology into the classroom to motivate students to further study. A new $31 million chemistry center allows computer-based simulated experiments, computer-assisted instruction, and advanced graphics for visualization. Despite use of incentives, some student…

A major goal of science education is to turn novices (students) into experts (scientists or science literates) with a minimum amount of pain, effort, and time. However, transfer of biology knowledge from instructor to student usually results in a loss of the rich interconnections that an expert has. The papers in this set describe efforts to…

This study describes efforts to apply principles of systematic knowledge representation (concept mapping and computer-based semantic networking techniques) to the domain of ecology. A set of 24 relationships and modifiers is presented that seem sufficient for describing all ecological relationships discussed in an introductory course. Many of…

First-hand accounts of what teachers have done with students and computers in their classrooms, how students have responded, and what and how teachers have learned from these experiences are discussed in the 19 articles in this book. The articles are presented under these headings: (1) teaching writing with word processors; (2) learning to inquire…

A "Xenograde system" is an imaginary science system. As an imaginary science, it contains a set of concepts and principles which mimic many of the concepts and principles found in physics and other physical sciences. Xenograde is a highly complex closed system which simulates the movement of satellites orbiting a nucleus and some small particles…

This study was designed to learn if students perceived an interactive computer/videodisc learning system to represent a viable alternative to (or extension of) the conventional laboratory for learning biology skills and concepts normally taught under classroom laboratory conditions. Data were collected by questionnaire in introductory biology…

Microcomputers are commonly interfaced to external devices in scientific, industrial, and consumer settings for data acquisition and for control. The general problem under consideration is the task of taking measurements of some continuous phenomenon, transforming them into digital form, and storing the data in the microcomputer for later use.…

The Science Career Awareness Training (SCAT) program proved effective as a means of increasing knowledge about science careers and interest in science as a career for students in the late elementary school grades (grades 4-6). Thus, the SCAT program influenced the knowledge and motivation bases of career choices. However, participants in the…

This paper surveys the types of computer usage, both current and planned, in science education. The authors state that they are concerned not with the scientist with computer experience, but rather with telling those without computer teaching experience about the possibilities and prospects. In their discussion, the authors distinguish at least…

Defines all recurrence relations used in the Nuffield course, to solve first- and second-order differential equations, and describes a typical algorithm for computer generation of solutions. (Author/GA)

Discusses the use of the Interactive Computer-based Testing (ICBT) in university-level science courses as an effective and economical educational tool. The authors discuss: (1) major objectives to ICBT; (2) advantages and pitfalls of the student use of ICBT; and (3) future prospects of ICBT. (HM)