Software-driven instrumentation makes measurements that demand a computer as an integral part of either control, data acquisition, or data reduction. The structure of such instrumentation, hardware requirements, and software requirements are discussed. Examples of software-driven instrumentation (such as wavelength-modulated continuum source…

Nonlinear least squares computer programs are extremely valuable in fitting complicated equations to experimental data. They are easy to use and free students and teachers from the tedium of trying to derive linearized forms to complicated equations. The use of these programs (available for most medium/large scale computers) is discussed. (JN)

Monitoring student performance on microcomputer drill and practice programs over time provides evidence that students learn from the programs at different rates and that programs differ in the rates at which they impart learning to students. Implications of these and other findings for science teaching are addressed. (JN)

This paper discusses research on the processes by which individuals progress toward expertise in scientific domains, focusing on the activity of constructing qualitative problem representations during solution of standard mechanics problems in physics. It includes information on: (1) descriptive analyses of problem-solving performance; (2)…

Described is a computer algorithm for obtaining the coordinates of vertices, chord factors, and dihedral angles for plotting orthographic and axonometric projections, and for tabulating chord lengths and dihedral angles. (Author)

Described is a project involving the introduction of microcomputers into the laboratory portion of a college general physics course for data collection and analysis. The results of an evaluation of this program are presented. (CW)

Describes a computer program presenting four genetics problems to monitor the problem solving process of college students. Identifies three main areas of difficulty: computational skills; determination of gametes; and application of previous learning to new situations. (Author/YP)

Presents three specific examples of chemical engineering problems which can be interactively solved on personal computers with commercially available software. Illustrates the potential impact of interactive problem solving on chemical engineering. Discusses how this has been accomplished at Ben Gurion University (Israel) and the University of…

Presented are two applications of computer technology to chemistry instruction: the use of a spreadsheet program to analyze acid-base titration curves and the use of database software to catalog stockroom inventories. (CW)

This paper analyzes the hardware and software features that would be desirable in a computer-based semantic network system for representing biology knowledge. It then describes in detail a prototype network of molecular biology knowledge that has been developed using Filevision software and a Macintosh computer. The prototype contains about 100…

Described are the uses of a spreadsheet program to compute the free energy change associated with a reaction; to model acid/base equilibria; and to solve equilibrium constant expressions. Stressed are the advantages derived from having the spreadsheet perform the multiple, trivial calculations. (CW)

Presented is an illustration of the use of a computer spreadsheet program, Microsoft Excel version 1.5, for solving complicated chemical problems. Examples of spreadsheet output are provided. (CW)

Describes an intelligent tutoring system named MENDEL, including problem GENERATOR, TUTOR, student MODELER, ADVISOR, hypothesis CHECKER, and problem SOLVER. This software may be used by high school or university biology students as a tool for learning concepts and problem-solving strategies in transmission genetics. (YP)

Reviews three computer software packages for chemistry education including "Osmosis and Diffusion" and "E.M.E. Titration Lab" for Apple II and "Simplex-V: An Interactive Computer Program for Experimental Optimization" for IBM PC. Summary ratings include ease of use, content, pedagogic value, student reaction, and…

Investigated were the effects of interactive computer-generated homework on unit tests, a final examination, and a comprehensive test given near the end of a Physical Science I course. The results indicated that the use of the homework reduced the effectiveness of the American College Test scores as a predictor of course achievement. (YP)