A common problem in many schools is the lack of equipment and materials in their science laboratories due to both limited budget available to the school and high maintenance cost of the lab. The latest technological advancements provide great opportunities for schools to go over the budget and cost issues by using 3D virtual learning environments…

Students in 4 Canadian high school physics classes completed instructional sequences in two key physics topics related to motion--Straight Line Motion and Newton's First Law. Different sequences of laboratory investigation, teacher explanation (lecture) and the use of computer-based scientific visualizations (animations and simulations) were…

Discusses the use of microcomputers in science education: (1) computer-assisted instruction; (2) testing; (3) data processing; (4) simulation; (5) teacher assistance; and (6) data collection. Gives educational applications of microcomputer-based laboratories, pointing out advantages and disadvantages. Outlines current drawbacks and makes…

Presented are seven abstracts of papers presented at a microcomputer conference. Areas considered include: development of "Rocky's Boots," a logic simulation game; using computers for practice and problem solving; experiences using LOGO; a computer science curriculum; microcomputers in the science laboratory; computer literacy; and a…

Studies the effect of V-Scope activities on the performance of 11th-grade students in analyzing kinematics graphs. Students were challenged to construct different kinds of graphs using their own movements as well as the motion of a dynamics cart. Results indicate that the V-Scope kinematics laboratory activities can promote kinematics concepts and…

Reviews the goals of laboratory education as identified by the National Science Teachers Association. Describes an Apple II system for the lab. Concentrates on hardware and connections. Stresses the advantages of student-microcomputer interaction in the laboratory setting. (CW)

Explores the application of the microcomputer as an adjunct to laboratory experiments within the science curriculum. Identifies needs and critical competitors that may affect implementation. Indicates problems along with suggestions for improving the effectiveness of this method. (RT)