Presents two short microcomputer programs which illustrate features of nonlinear dynamics, including steady states, periodic oscillations, period doubling, and chaos. Logistic maps are explained, inclusion in undergraduate chemistry and physics courses to teach nonlinear equations is discussed, and applications in social and biological sciences…

Presents results of a survey on physics teachers' opinions of microcomputers and microprocessor-based teaching aids they have used, including what features were considered most important and advantages/disadvantages of and personal comments about each device. Includes a glossary of terms used in the report. (JN)

Herbert Simon (Nobel prize-winning economist/professor) expresses his views on human and artificial intelligence, problem solving, inventing concepts, and the future. Includes comments on expert systems, state of the art in artificial intelligence, robotics, and "Bacon," a computer program that finds scientific laws hidden in raw data.…

Examines reasons for including microprocessors in school curricula. Indicates that practical work with microprocessors is not easy and discusses problems associated with using and constructing these control and processing devices of microcomputers. (SK)

This article describes an approach to modifying science students' alternative conceptions of physical phenomena by means of diagnostic and remedial microcomputer programs designed in accord with a model of conceptual change. Current applications of microcomputers are discussed, including numerical work, drill and testing, tutorials, simulation,…

Discusses the use of computers in the classroom, suggests visions of an educational future, and describes a project developed at the University of Maryland to examine the effects of computers on the college-level physics curriculum. Topics discussed include microcomputer-based laboratories, increased modeling power, and access to large databases.…

Describes direct and indirect voltage input techniques and their applications to voltage measurements with a microcomputer. Details circuitry that can be used for this with a gameport. Gives examples of circuit modifications, application of voltage measurement, and alternatives to this method. (CW)

Discusses the growth of computer networks in elementary and secondary schools and describes numerous benefits for both instructional and management functions. Topics discussed include ease of use; educational advantages; examples of use in physics, writing, and journalism classes; student records management; cost benefits; and greater efficiency.…