Topics discussed include: (1) what is a simulation; (2) why simulate; (3) when to use simulations; (4) planning for instruction; (5) cautions and limitations; and (6) future developments. Suggests that computer simulation in science is both entertaining and motivating. (MP)

Explores several options and advantages of using microcomputers in science teaching. Describes programs for calculating pH, Maxwell-Boltzman distribution of velocities in a gas, atomic orbitals, and lattice energies. Also suggests use of microcomputers in the areas of simulations, scoring tests, and controlling stock. (DS)

Provides historical background for computer usage in education. Describes several aspects of technology emerging today which will have impact on education including: the emergence of the personal computer; communication technologies; and software engineering. Also describes several simulation packages for use in the science classroom. (DS)

Describes research on in situ processing to develop necessary theory and understanding of the underground process to facilitate commercialization of a wide range of mineral deposits. Goal is to produce laboratory and computer-based tools to allow site evaluation based on field and laboratory measurements of mineral and associated overburdens.…

Describes an undergraduate chemical engineering course which has been offered at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The objectives, structure, instructional materials and content of this course, which emphasizes the structure and usage of computer-aided design systems, are also included. (HM)

Described are developments in medical electronics and physiological measurement. Discussed are electrocardiology, audiology, and urology as mature applications; applied potential tomography, magnetic stimulation of nerves, and laser Doppler flowmetry as new techniques; and optical sensors, ambulatory monitoring, and biosensors as future…

Microcomputer-based laboratories (MBL), the use of microcomputers for student-directed data acquisition and analysis, represents a promising new development in science laboratory instruction. This descriptive study determined the impact of MBLs on middle school students' understanding of graphs of distance and velocity. The study was based on the…

Listings of suggested topics aimed at helping university and college faculties plan courses in the main areas of the chemistry curricula are provided. The suggestions were originally offered as appendices to the American Chemical Society's (ACS) Committee on Professional Training's 1983 guidelines for ACS-approved schools. The course data included…

The project described was designed to develop a strategy using computers and cross-aged instruction to: (1) increase basic skill levels of mathematically low-achieving sixth graders; (2) increase enrollments in high school science and mathematics; (3) evaluate microcomputers as unique instructional tools; and (4) develop effective applications of…

The nine Reactor Statics Modules are designed to introduce students to the use of numerical methods and digital computers for calculation of neutron flux distributions in space and energy which are needed to calculate criticality, power distribution, and fuel burn-up for both slow neutron and fast neutron fission reactors. The diffusion…

Discusses: (1) feature of videodisc technology which make it a versatile educational tool; (2) availability of videodiscs for teaching physics and astronomy; and (3) example of the ways these videodiscs can be used in instructional settings. Tables listing physics and astronomy videodiscs (title, author, source, cost, and abstract) are included.…

Describes the use of Appleworks to maintain classroom records of student scores. Discusses labeling, computing, sums, averages, maximum/minimum scores, and numeric grade, as well as initializing the gradebook and how to enter scores. (JM)

Describes typical instructional applications of computers. Areas considered include: (1) instructional simulations and animations; (2) data analysis; (3) drill and practice; (4) student evaluation; (5) development of computer models and simulations; (6) biometrics or biostatistics; and (7) direct data acquisition and analysis. (JN)

Notes problems for rural science educators caused by the emergence of the postindustrial age. Describes developments in computer technology and notes how computers could assist rural teachers in solving postindustrial problems. Notes how rural schools' computer use could alter the role and preparation of rural science teachers. (SB)

A PET microcomputer is used as an accurate and programmable timer to support data acquisition from velocity experiments covering falling, rolling, and sliding objects, and human velocity, acceleration, and power measurements. The inexpensive instrumentation is simple and easy to use and compares favorably with conventional, more expensive…