CONDUIT distributes eight packages of computer-based instructional materials in its physics series; three are simulations of physical phenomena, and the others require students to write programs to solve physics problems. Specialized versions are being developed for microcomputers with graphical output and modern computer languages. (CMV)

Sections of this article deal with (1) the first quarter of a beginning mechanics course, (2) development of computer based learning materials in other parts of physics, (3) production strategies, and (4) the future of computer based learning in physics and other areas. (Author/CMV)

Describes and illustrates the tutorial and homework exercise lessons, student routing, course organization, administration, and evaluation of a PLATO computer-based course in classical mechanics. An appendix lists 41 lessons developed for the course. (CMV)

Discussion of mathematical modeling, particularly for high school physics curricula, focuses on software that is connected with laboratory work and the inference of mathematical models based on measurements of physical quantities. Fitting procedures are described, and user interface is explained. (Contains nine references.) (LRW)

Describes computer use in the undergraduate physics laboratory at the University of Toronto. Topics discussed include user interfaces; local area networking; data analysis and acquisition; other computer applications, including a programmable calculator and word processing; and an example of an experiment involving gravity. (LRW)

Describes a data acquisition system developed for an undergraduate engineering students' instructional laboratory at Georgia Tech. Special emphasis is placed on the design of an A/D Converter Board used to measure the viscosity and temperature of motor oil. The Simons' BASIC Program Listing for the Commodore 64 microcomputer is appended. (LRW)

Explains how a spreadsheet can be an effective modeling and simulation tool for studying electrical circuits. Highlights include Kirchoff's rules and matrices algebra; a pilot experiment with preservice teacher education students in a physics class; the teacher's role; student attitudes; curricular aspects; and the effectiveness of the spreadsheet…

Examines sex equality in computer literacy in Dutch secondary education using a Dutch version of the Minnesota Computer Literacy Awareness Assessment. Research on sex differences in mathematics and science education is used as a basis for testing hypotheses regarding computer literacy, and analyses of results are explained. (LRW)

Discusses cooperative problem solving among Open University physics and math students and describes three studies that investigated how to design effective computer-based support for collaborative learning in distance education. The value of peer interaction for learning and problem solving is discussed, and students' attitudes to group work are…

Describes the development and evaluation of an interactive videodisc designed for Open University students in a physics course that explores the physical properties of water. The user interface is discussed; software is described; videodisc production is explained; and results of an evaluation of student attitudes from questionnaire responses is…

Describes study that investigated teachers' criteria for the use of courseware packages in Dutch junior high school physics classes. The development of a courseware evaluation instrument is described; drill and practice, simulation, and tutorial courseware packages are evaluated; motivating elements are considered; and implications for the design…