Describes physics experiments (including speed, acceleration, and acceleration due to gravity) in which students write programs to obtain and manipulate experimental data using the Atari microcomputer game port. The approach emphasizes the essential physics of the experiments while affording students useful experience of automatic data collection.…

In the Project Solo classification scheme for interactive computing Category IV encompasses those activities where the student takes the role of lesson designer. Similar programs written by a teacher or fellow student are frequently the starting point for such a would-be author. The transition from the role of student to that of student-author is…

Points out two areas of difficulty in teaching Newtonian dynamics. Describes several alternatives to physics learning using new technology. Details the use of the LOGO computer language in teaching simple Newtonian environments. Suggests the potential for creating new learning experiences in dynamics with new technology. (CW)

Lists a program for a simulation of Rutherford's gold foil experiment in BASIC for both Apple II and IBM compatible computers. Compares Rutherford's model of the atom with Thompson's plum pudding model of the atom. (MVL)

This manual is intended as a reference handbook for use in writing instructional dialogs on the Sigma-7 computer. The concern is to give concise information which one would need to write and debug dialogs on this system. Metasymbol, the macro-assembly program for the Sigma-7, is described. Definitions of terminology, legal forms descriptions of…

Reviews the use of computers in various aspects of physics teaching. Introduces some basic hardware and software concepts and jargon. Illustrates these ideas using four vastly different microcomputers, with prices, to help in choosing the right educational computer system. (GA)

Presents a ray-tracing procedure based on some ideas of Herzberger and the matrix approach to geometrical optics. This method, which can be implemented on a programmable pocket calculator, applies to any conic surface, including paraboloids, spheres, and planes. (Author/GA)

Discusses approach to integrating computer programing into a calculus-based physics survey college course which stresses three major uses of computers: data reduction, calculation, and simulation. An initial programing exercise and practical constraints--time a student can allot to course and student's level of confidence--are mentioned. (EJS)

The current curriculum modules under development at Project Solo are listed. The modules are grouped under the subject matter that they are designed to teach--algebra II, biology, calculus, chemistry, computer science, 12th grade math, physics, social science. Special programs written for use on the Hewlett-Packard Plotter are listed that may be…

Describes techniques in LOGO, which are applicable to A-level and above. The techniques use a dynamic modeling approach, which considers system behavior in terms of state transitions over successive short intervals. Advantages and disadvantages of using LOGO are noted. (JN)

Describes 17 situations in physics which require students to write computer programs to solve. All the projects are general in nature and require students to have a thorough conceptual understanding of the content to apply the algorithm needed to solve the specific type of problem illustrated. (JN)

Describes a course entitled Computer Applications in Science," offered by the Physics Department at Queen Mary College, London. Lists topics included in the lectures and topics handled by means of computer projects assigned to students. (Author/TS)

A problem is detailed which has a solution that embodies geometry, trigonometry, ballistics, projectile mechanics, vector analysis, and elementary computer graphics. It is felt that the information and sample computer programs can be a useful starting point for a user written code that involves missiles and other projectiles. (MP)