We tested whether ChatGPT can play a role in designing field courses in higher education. In collaboration with ChatGPT, we developed two field courses; the first aimed at creating a completely new field trip, while the second was tailored to fit an existing university module, and then compared to the human module design. From our case studies,…

This article presents a study conducted at Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) to explore the use of ChatGPT, a large language model, for fostering critical thinking skills in higher education. The study implemented a ChatGPT-based activity in introductory chemistry courses, where students engaged with ChatGPT in three stages: account setup and…

Most timeline analogies of geologic and evolutionary time are fundamentally flawed. They trade off the problem of grasping very long times for the problem of grasping very short distances. The result is an understanding of relative time with little comprehension of absolute time. Earlier work has shown that the distances most easily understood by…

Computer-aided learning (CAL) is used increasingly to teach anatomy in post-secondary programs. Studies show that augmentation of traditional cadaver dissection and model examination by CAL can be associated with positive student learning outcomes. In order to reduce costs associated with the purchase of skeletons and models and to encourage study…

Briefly describes most of the currently available scientific word processing software packages. Unless noted, these products (including Molecular Presentation Graphics, ProofWriter, Spellbinder Scientific, Volkswriter Scientific, and WordMARC) run on the IBM PC family of microcomputers. (JN)

The ability of a microcomputer to execute several programs at the same time is called "multitasking." The nature and use of one multitasking operating system Concurrent PC-DOS from Digital Research (the developers of the CP/M operating system) are discussed. (JN)

Exchange of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) material between institutions is often impeded by incompatabilities of hardware, software, and curriculum. The use of a driver program is suggested to resolve these problems and facilitate exchange of instructional material. Technical details of the program described (and lessons used) are available…

Provides examples of software for the sciences, including: packages for pathology/toxicology laboratories (costing over $15,000), DNA sequencing, and data acquisition/analysis; general-purpose software for scientific uses; and "custom" packages, including a program to maintain a listing of "Escherichia coli" strains and a…

Describes software which demonstrates some features of three-dimensional protein structure on microcomputers. The program only displays the polypeptide backbone drawn through the alpha-carbon positions and is therefore much less sophisticated, but it has been used successfully during lectures on protein structure and as an adjunct to slides and…

Discusses what to look for when considering the purchase of a microcomputer. Also discusses the basic features of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. (JN)

Outlines a sequence used to prepare and to administer examinations by computer. The sequence, based on programs described in an earlier issue of "The Physiologist," is presented under four headings: preliminary steps; taking the quiz; grading the quiz; and flexible options. Information on obtaining the programs is included. (JN)

Describes an interactive, screen-oriented, BASIC computer program for an IBM PC microcomputer with graphics capability. The program (which uses about 34K RAM and utilizes a menu format) represents a general method for calculating thermodynamic properties of chemical reactions from thermal data for reactants and products. (JN)

Software-driven instrumentation makes measurements that demand a computer as an integral part of either control, data acquisition, or data reduction. The structure of such instrumentation, hardware requirements, and software requirements are discussed. Examples of software-driven instrumentation (such as wavelength-modulated continuum source…

Discusses how four standard business software packages can be made to work together as a means of storing herbarium specimen label data and printing new labels. The packages include dBASE III, Quickcode, SuperKey, and PC-Write. Reasons for selecting these packages are considered. (JN)

Lists 12 simulation programs covering respiratory mechanics, gas exchange, chemoregulation of respiration, ventilation/perfusion relationships, and acid-base balance. Describes the structure of a typical program and shows how the programs are used during lecture and laboratory sessions. (JN)