Discusses an easy way of interfacing physics experiments to a microcomputer, providing information on the "analog input port" of a BBC microcomputer. Also describes a capacitor discharge experiment with suggestions for several student activities such as investigating decay curve shapes. Program listing is available from author. (DH)

Relates the experiences of a naive computer-using teacher attempting to integrate the microcomputer into a course unit on human anatomy. Based on these experiences, advice is offered to others who are incorporating computers into their courses for the first time. (JN)

The "Measurement Module" is a device which records measurements for microcomputer input. Construction of the device, software, and uses in physics experiments and demonstrations are discussed. (JN)

Reviews a chem-study experiment in which students weigh and compare equal volumes of gases and enter their data into a microcomputer. Benefits of using the microcomputer include: (1) data table generation; (2) elimination of calculation errors; (3) student conclusions which are meaningful; and (4) efficient grading time for the teacher. (DH)

Program listing for a computer game on kinematics is provided. Documentation for the listing (in Microsoft BASIC) and rationale for using computer games in the classroom are also provided. (JN)

Seven possible applications of microcomputers in high school science programs are discussed. They include computers as calculators, computers as black-box number crunchers, computers for teaching computer literacy, computers as blackboards, computer-assisted instruction, computer simulations, and process control. (JN)

Questionnaire responses from 193 high schools indicate that very few science teachers use microcomputers regularly in classrooms. Descriptions of schools/science departments, background information on faculty using microcomputers, and nature/extent of utilization are discussed along with possible causes of limited use and recommendations for…

Offers suggestions for making good use of a single microcomputer in classes with large numbers of students. Strategies described include in-class demonstrations, laboratory station activities, group activities, enrichment activities, and data collection techniques. Diagrams of room arrangements to accomplish the strategies are included. (BC)

Equipped with simple sensors and software, a microcomputer can become a microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL). Discusses the value of MBL's and provides three programs which preview the new MBL kits available for science classes. A list of commercially available MBL's (with product names, current prices, and other information) is also included. (JN)

Discusses computer/computing experiences at Ardsley High School (Westchester County, New York) to foster computer literacy and to show students how computers can be used to check/verify calculations. Focuses on programs developed for chemistry classes and problems with commercially available programs for physics. (JN)

Suggests approaches to teaching computer programing and applications to physics instruction. Indicates that the necessity of breaking a problem down into a programable entity ensures that the student will learn programing, logical sequential thinking, as well as physics content. (JN)

A BASIC computer program was written for an experiment that measures the time of a fall of a ball-bearing dropped through a measured distance. However, the timing subroutine was written in machine language. The reason for using machine language, the machine language program, hardware used, and the experiment are discussed. (JN)

Discusses a computer interfacing course using Commodore 64 microcomputers; a computer program for radioactive equilibrium; analysis of near infrared spectrum of hydrochloric acid molecules using Apple II microcomputers; microcomputer approach to conductivity titrations; balancing equations with Commodore 64's; formulation of mathematical…

Four ways in which microcomputers can be turned into laboratory instruments are discussed. These include adding an analog/digital (A/D) converter on a printed circuit board, adding an external A/D converter using the computer's serial port, attaching transducers to the game paddle ports, or connecting an instrument to the computer. (JN)

Describes a microcomputer-based, multichannel digital data acquisition system for acoustic signals. Hardware and software considerations are included. (JN)