What is the future for school science and in particular for practical work? This article explores the question from four perspectives and seeks solutions for different age groups in the UK and beyond.

Computer simulations have been used very effectively for many years in the teaching of science but the focus has been on cognitive development. This study, however, is an investigation into the possibility that a student's experimental skills in the real-world environment can be judged via the undertaking of a suitably chosen computer simulation…

In a relatively short space of time, classrooms have become full of computers, gadgets and electronic devices. Technology will only continue to become more sophisticated, more efficient and more abundant in schools. But how desirable is this technological revolution and to what extent should it develop? To measure the effectiveness and popularity…

Describes a program which simulates the kinetic behavior of a "typical" enzyme. Program objectives, background to the kinetic model used in the simulation, major program features, typical results obtained, and a note on the availability of the program (written in BASIC for Commodore microcomputer) are included. (JN)

Describes (in separate articles): computer simulations in science education; how junior high school students revised an experiment; a framework for assessment in science; physics, relevance, and understanding; a science module for a sixth form general studies course; and assessment of providing science education for the 16-19 age group. (JN)

States that constructive thinking about variables seems to be a key to accelerated learning in science and that computer modeling can enable this. A taped sequence of a group in the exploratory use of a model reveals the potential of such activity. (Author/ASK)

Promotes the use of computer modelling in physics instruction. Describes Dynamic Modelling System (DMS) and the procedures employed in applying it to problem solving in physics. Provides fundamental information on BASIC language and techniques for using DMS. (ML)

Describes computer measurement of capacitor charge decay, change of fringe width with color, computer simulation of color mixing, Doppler effect/carrier waves, gravitational waves, microwave apparatus, computer simulation of Brownian motion, search coils and problems with the teaching of the relationships of velocity, frequency, and wavelength in…

Presents an experiment which links mass spectrometry to gas chromatography. Also presents a simulation of iron extraction using a ZX81 computer and discussions of Fehling versus Benedict's solutions, transition metal ammine complexes, electrochemical and other chemical series, and a simple model of dynamic equilibria. (JN)

Described is a computer program that, by means of a simple motor task, provides a context that enables students to learn about motor coordination. The effects of alcohol, drugs, or solvents on the motor task can be investigated using a delay in the feedback loop. A description of the hardware and software is included. (KR)

Discusses use of microcomputers for structuring, communicating, and disseminating information under the categories of instructional use (computer-assisted instruction), emancipation (number crunching), revelatory (discovery/simulation), and conjectural (hypothesis testing). Also discusses use of PROLOG language for modeling ecosystems and testing…