Social gaming--online gameplay involving digital interactions with others--is a common form of social media use among adolescents. Research on this topic has neglected the social aspect of gaming and the potential role of social gaming in adolescent development. In this article, we define social gaming, drawing on interdisciplinary theories to…

When teaching undergraduate biology courses, developing engaging activities which allow students to learn using a hands-on pedagogy can provide impactful learning moments for students. This activity helps students make connections between lecture content on environmental issues, e.g., the use of microplastics (MPs) and their own day-to-day…

This article describes how one science teacher based an activity on designing smartphone apps to clearly and concisely communicate the interdependent relationships of a biological ecosystem. The teacher designed the activity to address several aspects of the latest science standards. Students needed to understand their ecosystem and synthesize new…

Relates the experiences of a naive computer-using teacher attempting to integrate the microcomputer into a course unit on human anatomy. Based on these experiences, advice is offered to others who are incorporating computers into their courses for the first time. (JN)

Discusses the unique user interface of Apple's Macintosh microcomputer which is changing the way researchers interact with their data. Topic areas addressed include: desktop, mouse, and windows; preparing scientific illustrations; MacPaint; and charts and graphics. Limitations are also noted. (DH)

Describes a microcomputer program (written for the Apple II+) which can serve as a lecture demonstration aid in explaining genetic transcription and translation. The program provides unemotional information on student errors, thus serving as a review drill to supplement the classroom. Student participation and instructor options are discussed. (DH)

Biology teachers at Ithaca College have developed a course in experimental methodology and instrumentation that teaches beginning biology students the need for accuracy and precision in measurement. This course is described. (JN)

Described is a method of simulating the formation of a DNA distribution, on which statistical results and experimentally measured parameters from DNA distribution and percent-labeled mitosis studies are combined. An EAI-680 and DECSystem-10 Hybrid Computer configuration are used. (Author/CS)

Suggests a microcomputer/mastery-learning combination for more effective use of teacher time and management of records, tests, grading, and student directions. Mastery learning is discussed along with the many advantages microcomputers can provide toward this goal. (DH)

The microcomputer used as a closed-circuit television typewriter and graphics generator is suggested as an alternative visual teaching strategy for lecture or discussions. The use of such a system in an introductory biology course for nonmajors is discussed. (JN)

Discusses stages in the evolution of educational software and changes in general and specific software characteristics. Also discusses future developments in educational software and hardware, suggesting the development of a new area in educational and cognitive psychology centering on computers in education. (JN)

Advantages of computerized data acquisition and three approaches to data collection are discussed. Interfacing techniques and use of microcomputers as physiological recorders are also discussed. Examples of computerized data acquisition are provided. These include computer monitoring of animal activity and collecting data from species distribution…

A 16K Sinclair ZX81 microcomputer equipped with an analog to digital board and a Sinclair printer was used to capture data continuously from a total of eight temperature or light sensors. Describes the construction of the peripherals, explains how to connect them together, and provides a program to run the ZX81. (Author/JN)

Discusses the role and use of microcomputers in scientific research, from monitoring instruments to controlling experimental processes. Included are descriptions of a computer-controlled protein sequencer and gene synthesizer, and microcomputer uses in medicine, physiology, biochemistry, and geology. (JN)

Describes the modification of computer programs (BISON and POLLUT) to accommodate species and areas indigenous to the Pacific Coast area. Suggests that these programs, suitable for PET microcomputers, may foster a long-term, ongoing, inquiry-directed approach in biology. (DS)