Discusses general statistical methods which could be employed to develop homework problems and laboratory exercises. Methods emphasize experimental design and the effects of uncertainties on inferences drawn from experimental data. (CW)

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)

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)

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)

Described are two applications of computers in chemistry. The multilinear equations and procedures used in obtaining a least-squares solution for curve fitting in chemistry are presented. Also discussed is the program "ATORB" which can be used to generate graphs of probable electron clouds for various atoms and molecules. (CW)

Presents the results of a chemistry program held at Purdue University from July 31-August 4, 1988. Topics reported include: chemistry's past, present, and future; new directions in chemical education, demonstrations and laboratories; and instructional strategies. Lists the 391 papers given at the conference and the 22 workshops. (MVL)

The target of difficulty of the Educational Technology Center (ETC) Heat and Temperature Group is basic thermal physics, particularly the differentiation between heat and temperature. High school teachers often find that thermal concepts are very difficult for their students to master and attribute students' difficulties at least in part to the…

The impact of enhanced observation or enhanced prediction on scientific reasoning about heat energy and temperature problems was investigated. Instruction was successful in improving prediction and observation skills in the microcomputer-based laboratory environment. (CW)

This study investigated the attention or arousal of above and below average boys and girls while viewing a science television program on videotape. Skin resistance (GSR) was measured by a biosensor attached to a microcomputer and served as the dependent variable. Analysis of the data included a 2x2x8 ANOVA of gender v. ability v. GSR. The…

This paper is a summary of much of the available research on college science laboratory instruction of the past decade with a focus on the effects of specific laboratory teaching strategies upon student learning outcomes. Some tentative interpretations from a review of the literature found are: (1) inquiry or investigative approaches in college…

Reviewed are two computer software packages the "Scientific Routines Diskette: Laboratory Automation Using the IBM PC" and "SEQS 3.0 Student Version Simultaneous Equation Solver" for IBM and compatible personal computers. Discussed are hardware, components, level, cost, functions, strengths, and weaknesses. (CW)

Provided is an empirical method to train students to avoid physical disaster in their work experience. Discussed is a computer program, CHETAH, which can be used in advance of synthesis to classify the possible explosive nature of the products. Plosophoric and auxoplosive weights of many organic groups are listed. (MVL)

This paper describes how computers were employed by workshop participants, the commercial materials used, some of the experiments performed using computer interfaces, and the effect of computer interfacing on the science laboratory. Increased student interest through the study of open-ended experiments is discussed. (CW)

Discussed are seven computer programs: (1) a computer graphics experiment for organic chemistry laboratory; (2) a gel filtration simulation; (3) judging spelling correctness; (4) interfacing the TLC548 ADC; (5) a digitizing circuit for the Apple II game port; (6) a chemical information base; and (7) an IBM PC article database. (MVL)