Project 3D IMAGINE or 3D Image Arrays to Graphically Implement New Education is a pilot study that researches the effectiveness of incorporating 3D tactile images, which are critical for learning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, into entry-level lab courses. The focus of this project is to increase the participation and…

In our three-dimensional world, one can plot, see, and comprehend a function of two variables at most, V(x,y). One cannot plot a function of three or more variables. For this reason, visualization of the potential energy function in its full dimensionality is impossible even for the smallest polyatomic molecules, such as triatomics. This creates…

Modern education technologies are destined to reflect the realities of a modern digital age. The juxtaposition of real and synthetic (computer-generated) worlds as well as a greater emphasis on visual dimension are especially important characteristics that have to be taken into account in learning and teaching. We describe the ways in which an…

A small class of functions is described that easily lend themselves to two-dimensional and three-dimensional visualizations at the basic calculus level. The intended audience is those educators involved in the instruction of elementary calculus. This note is an educational piece that begins with the question: "What happens if a function defined on…

Supercomputing is described in terms of computing power and abilities. The increase in availability of supercomputers for use in chemical calculations and modeling are reported. Efforts of the National Science Foundation and Cray Research are highlighted. (CW)

Reviews three softwre packages: "Molecular Graphics on the Apple Microcomputer, Enhanced Version 2.0"; "Molecular Graphics on the IBM PC Microcomputer"; and "Molecular Animator, IBM PC Version." Packages are rated based on ease of use, subject matter content, pedagogic value, and student reaction. (CW)

Six areas of computer use in undergraduate education, particularly in the fields of mathematics and physics, are discussed in these proceedings. The areas included are: the computational mode; computer graphics; the simulation mode; analog computing; computer-assisted instruction; and the current politics and management of college level computer…

Describes and compares five different uses of computers in physics education: tutorial, demonstrations, modelling toolkit, laboratory aid, and student as programer. Provides examples of computer uses and offers perspectives on developing further programs. (ML)

Evaluates two Apple II interfacing packages designed to measure pH: (1) "Experiments in Chemistry" by HRM Software and (2) "Voltage Plotter III" by Vernier Software. Provides characteristics and screen dumps of each package. Reports both systems are suitable for high school or beginning college laboratories. (MVL)