In this paper, we present three types of activity that we have observed during students' free exploration of a software called "Algodoo," which allows students to explore a range of physics phenomena within the same digital learning environment. We discuss how, by responding to any of the three activity types we identify in the students'…

Most rockets convert the energy stored in their propellant mass into the mechanical energy required to expel it as exhaust. The 'rocket equation', which describes how a rocket's speed changes with mass, is usually derived by assuming that this fuel is expelled at a constant relative velocity. However, this is a poor assumption for cases where the…

Reviews the British Ordinary National Diploma (OND) course in technology, a two-year fulltime program leading to degree and subdegree courses in technology and science. The course was designed as an alternative to a two-year sixth form A-level course in mathematics and physics. (MLH)

Urges that more applied science and technology be included in college science curricula. Reviews courses which are working toward this end, such as an engineering course which requires the student to spend a week in an industrial environment and to produce a report on his visit. (MLH)

Describes techniques being used in the production of microelectronics kits which have replaced traditional optical lithography, including contact and optical projection printing, and X-ray and electron beam lithography. Also includes limitations of each technique described. (SK)

Mathematical modelling and an example used with undergraduates were presented in part 1 (v17, n5, p212-18, 1982). A second example, Power from Windmills, is provided which has considerable potential for development both as a model and as a series of modelling experiences of increasing difficulty for students with different backgrounds. (Author/JN)

Describes the heating of a baby's milk bottle (an exercise in modelling) and the interaction between lecturer and students as they formulate the problem, produce a tentative solution and interpret the solution. (Author/JN)

Analyzes data presented in a recent article (EJ 328 649) examining the relationship between A-level physics and mathematics and degree performance in engineering or physics. A grade of A in A-level physics predicted first class degree performance. (JM)

Provides an analysis of 178 students who left Solihill Sixth Form College between 1975 and 1981 to do a degree in physics (approximately one-third) or engineering (approximately two-thirds) at a university or polytechnic. Results, among others, show good correlations between A-levels and successful degree performance. (JN)

Discusses three research topics which are concerned with eminently practical problems and deal at the same time with fundamental fluid dynamical problems. These research topics come from the general areas of chemical and biological engineering, geophysics, and pure mathematics. (HM)