In our September column, we noted that Hispanic and African-American seniors were less likely to have taken a high school physics course than their peers, and we suggested that socioeconomic status (SES) played a role in the lower participation. In the figure, we display the proportion of seniors, of physics teachers, and of physics enrollments at…

Describes various physics courses offered at Moline, particularly the conduct of self-pacing programs for grade 10-12 students who are either interested in the topic or planning further study in science. Indicates tremendously increasing enrollments with the adoption of the new instruction method. (CC)

Increasing physics enrollment is attributed to student interest in the course that is conducted in an informal atmosphere. Emphasis is placed on laboratory experience with open-ended experiments and problem sessions conducted with small groups. Group instruction and optional research in selected scientific areas are also included. (DF)

Results of a questionnaire survey of 455 two- and four-year institutions on the status on noncalculus physics courses are presented. Responses from 265 questionnaires focus on enrollment, textbooks, reasons for textbook changes, laboratory manuals, and nationally standardized set of laboratory experiments. Selected comments from individual…

Reports results of a 1983 national survey which determined the time devoted to teaching major physics content areas; subtopics in each area; equipment students saw and used; principle textbook used; and school/physics enrollments. Indicates that the data obtained can be used to establish guidelines in developing the Physics Achievement Test. (JN)