Educating our future citizens in science and engineering is vitally important to ensure future advancement. Presently, in the light of environmental sustainability, it is critical that students learn concepts relating to energy, its consumption and future demands. In this article, we harness the state of the educational technology, namely…

The use of simulators and customized applications for educational use opens new possibilities in the teaching and learning process of the most varied disciplines through computer-mediated interactions. In this context, teachers are developing digital material considering this powerful tool. And the use of educational apps and simulators has…

Described is a project involving the introduction of microcomputers into the laboratory portion of a college general physics course for data collection and analysis. The results of an evaluation of this program are presented. (CW)

Describes a junior-level, one-year optics laboratory course for physics and engineering students. The course offers a range of experiments from conventional geometric optics to contemporary spatial filtering and fiber optics. Presents an example of an experiment with pictures. (Author/YP)

Discussed is a method of measuring the coefficient of linear expansion of a solid. Getting many data points, using a computer program using the least square fit technique, and modifying the apparatus are described. (YP)

Describes a simple computer-interface experiment for recording the response of an RC network to an arbitrary input excitation. The setup is used to pose a variety of open-ended investigations in network modeling by varying the initial conditions, input signal waveform, and the circuit topology. (DDR)

Reports experiences during a two-year period in introducing the computer to the laboratory and students to the computer as a laboratory instrument. Describes a working philosophy, data acquisition system, and experiments. Summarizes the laboratory procedures of nine experiments, covering mechanics, heat, electromagnetism, and optics. (YP)

Evaluates a pair of workshops conducted by the Physics Courseware Evaluation Project. Presents data collected on computer tool needs of the teachers, microcomputer-based laboratory probes usage, spreadsheet usage, software usage, effectiveness of technology in the classroom, and teacher involvement with computers. Reports that high school teachers…

Described is a microcomputer with two detection systems to enable three variables of the puck's motion to be recorded simultaneously: speed, radius of the orbit, and the ongoing time of measurement. Presented are the experimental setup, a discussion of the computer program, and results. (YP)

Introduces three different techniques to facilitate the measurement of speed and the associated kinematics and dynamics using a computer. Discusses sensing techniques using optical or ultrasonic sensors, interfacing with a computer, software routines for the interfaces, and other applications. Provides circuit diagrams, pictures, and a program to…

Reviews "Vernier Software: Precision Timer II" for high school through college mechanics. Introduces 14 different modes including pulse time, pendulum timer, bouncer timer, gate timer, collision timers, and stroke calibration. Provides two typical displays and ratings of the software. (YP)