Physics education research (PER) is a global endeavor, with a wealth of work performed at a variety of institutions worldwide. However, results from research into undergraduate physics laboratory courses are often difficult to compare due to the broad variations in courses. We report here how we developed and validated a survey to classify these…

This study aims to examine students' reasoning based on the model in each laboratory work style and find the effect on scientific attitude and student activity. This study uses a quantitative approach with the experimental method. The study was conducted in three classes with different lab work styles. Arduino and sensors were used as a…

Integration of technology, social learning and scientific models offers pedagogical opportunities for science education. A particularly interesting area is thermal science, where students often struggle with abstract concepts, such as heat. In taking on this conceptual obstacle, we explore how hand-held infrared (IR) visualization technology can…

Science anxiety, which is one of the affective dimensions in science learning, is one of the factors affecting success in Science and has been studied for 35 years. The existence of considerable negative attitudes towards Physics courses, which is one of the basic branches of Science, is a fact. This research has been designed to identify the…

Describes an experiment in which static/dynamic properties of a helical, steel spring are investigated. During the experiment students discover that the behavior of the springs is non-Hookean at small loads. Background information (including static deflection and period of oscillation) and typical results are provided. (JM)

Describes a procedure based on the assumption that during the rated lifetime of a light bulb roughly half of the radius of the filament evaporates. Explains how the filament's operating temperature can be deduced. (DDR)

Describes a laboratory designed to give students practical experiences with experimental phenomena discussed in lectures, focusing on laboratory organization and typical experiment. In addition to a list of experiments, three exercises are discussed: fluorescence/laser, ferromagnetic domains, and thermal population (which uses PET computer…

Introduced are two experiments: radon detection method shows real data using vacuum cleaner, soft toilet paper, and Geiger-Muller tube; critical potentials measurement describes the operation of Teltron tube with VELA. (YP)

Describes a simple circuit based on an inexpensive quad operational amplifier that permits a direct-reading temperature instrument to be constructed using silicon diodes. Encourages the use of this equipment in introductory thermal experiments. (DDR)

Reports the results of an experiment with undergraduates in a physics laboratory that indicates that preparation before a lab session improves student performance in the lab. Also concludes that follow-up work can lead to meaningful learning. (DDR)

Highlights the need to make the undergraduate physics laboratory more exciting and commensurate with the time assigned for it in the curriculum. Suggests establishing a model undergraduate physics laboratory at one place then reproducing it in five places for a massive reorientation program for teachers. Contains brief outlines of 30 experiments…

Outlines the aims and principles underlying recent reforms in the junior school physics course in China. Focuses on developing students' abilities and the benefits of experimentation rather than the simple transfer of knowledge from teacher to students. (DDR)

A study of 723 University of Cape Town (South Africa) physics students investigated their prior experience with laboratory procedures and technical report writing. Results suggest that, although students are generally aware of the importance of these elements of learning, school experience with teaching of scientific concepts and skills is often…

Science should not be presented as a collection of facts; it must be presented as an active dynamic subject. It should be used to stimulate young minds and encourage questioning. This is a publication designed to meet the needs of science teachers for a day-to-day reference in science. It was intended for the use of Peace Corps volunteers and…

Science should not be presented as a collection of facts; it must be presented as an active dynamic subject. It should be used to stimulate young minds and encourage questioning. This is a publication designed to meet the needs of science teachers for a day-to-day reference in science. It was intended for the use of Peace Corps volunteers and…