Virtual experiments are beneficial and effective learning activities providing the opportunity to investigate the relationship between the experimental findings and the theories. There exist several advantages of using virtual experiments, including, among other things: 7/24 availability, opportunity of unlimited iterations, and working with an…

The incorporation of engaging and meaningful learning experiences is essential for the enhancement of critical thinking and the development of scientific literacy. The study engaged several groups of students in activities designed to elicit their understanding of a graphical representation of motion, and to determine the kinesthetic effect of…

The dual purpose of this article is to provide a synthesis of the findings related to the use of computer simulations in physics education and to present implications for teachers and researchers in science education. We try to establish a conceptual framework for the utilization of computer simulations as a tool for learning and instruction in…

Investigates the effects of two instructional strategies--augmented activation activities vs. expository instruction--and three different presentation formats--microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL), simulation, and computer-based text--on individuals' ability to understand concepts in physics. Indicates significant main effect for presentation…

Presents a calculator-type computer program, CLICAL, in conjunction with complex number, vector, and other geometric algebra computations. Compares the CLICAL with other symbolic programs for algebra. (Author/YP)

Describes an educational software program for the study of and detection methods for the cosmic ray muons passing through several light transparent materials (i.e., water, air, etc.). Simulates muons and Cherenkov photons' paths and interactions and visualizes/animates them on the computer screen using Monte Carlo methods/techniques which employ…

Resistance probes for the laboratory can be divided into two main categories: (1) those involving direct use of resistance; and (2) those involving an indirect use of resistance. Described are several applications of both types related to chemistry and physics. (RH)

An educational technique to calculate the lifetime of a comet using software-generated random numbers is introduced to undergraduate physiques and astronomy students. Discussed are the generation and eligibility of the required random numbers, background literature related to the problem, and the solution to the problem using random numbers.…

Students from five high schools participated in a 2 to 4-week microcomputer based laboratory (MBL) physics curriculum in two groups. One group completed the curriculum entirely online, and the other completed the same curriculum in a traditional classroom setting. Variables were collected to predict student success on a post-unit measure of…

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 simulation done by students in a Year 4 undergraduate physics laboratory course on pulse technology. The course objective was to provide students with experience in computation pulsed electrical circuits and in comparing the computation with experiments. Results showed that the microcomputer simulated experiments made for a more…

Describes a junior-level, one-year optics laboratory course for physics and engineering students. The course offers a range of experiments from conventional geometric optics to contemporary spatial filtering and fiber optics. Presents an example of an experiment with pictures. (Author/YP)

Develops a LOGO approach for explaining physics concepts using the microcomputer. Explains the usefulness of LOGO for programing physics problems. Lists several LOGO programs with programing explanations to explain physics concepts. (MVL)

Lists a BASIC program which computes the equilibrium constant as a function of temperature. Suggests use by undergraduates taking a one-year calculus-based physical chemistry course. Notes the program provides for up to four species, typically two reactants and two products. (MVL)

Discusses a computer simulation to teach logic design using a Macintosh computer which allows circuits to be built piece by piece. Describes features of the simulation and presents several schematics drawn by the software. (MVL)