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)

A 10-week project conducted with 12 gifted 4th and 5th grade students (10 boys and 2 girls) examined the effectiveness of the Logo computer programming language as a tool for helping students understand some basic principles of physics. Three assumptions were tested: (1) motivated elementary school students can learn both turtle graphics and word…

This paper describes Macintosh features which can be used in writing interactive programs. A program written in Microsoft BASIC (version 2.0 interpreter) is described which is used to produce plots of electric field produced by two-dimensional arrangements of point charges. It demonstrates the use of pull-down menus, windows on the screen, the…

An Open University project was planned to develop a set of computer assisted learning (CAL) microcomputer programs for a second level, summer school physics course, scheduled to begin in 1982. Major project aims were the development of an underlying system to effectively use medium resolution graphics with a simple animation capability;…

This paper gives a technical description of various computer graphics programs developed on the Sigma 7 computer. Terminals used are the Adage 100 and the Tektronix 4002-4010. Commands are Metasymbol procedures which access Metasymbol library subroutines; programs can also be coupled with FORTRAN programs. Available, inexpensive graphic terminals…

The effectiveness of different types of computer terminals in programing learning is discussed with special reference to the experience of the Physics Computer Development Project. Experience with ten types of terminals including hardcopy terminals of several speeds, alphanumeric and graphic terminals is reviewed. Special consideration is given to…

This module is part of a series designed to be used by life science students for instruction in the application of physical theory to ecosystem operation. Most modules contain computer programs which are built around a particular application of a physical process. FFORM is a portable format-free input subroutine package written in ANSI Fortran IV…

This module is part of a series designed to be used by life science students for instruction in the application of physical theory to ecosystem operation. Most modules contain computer programs which are built around a particular application of a physical process. PLOT3D is a subroutine package which generates a variety of three-dimensional hidden…

This module is part of a series designed to be used by life science students for instruction in the application of physical theory to ecosystem operation. Most modules contain computer programs which are built around a particular application of a physical process. PLOT3D is a subroutine package which generates a variety of three dimensional hidden…

Educational robots are defined, their essential characteristics and features are outlined, and their educational applications and what makes them run are discussed. Classroom experiences with five educational robots--Topo, Rhino XR-2, RB5X, Hero I and Tasman Turtle--are described. (MBR)

Computer graphics was selected as the means of teaching students to use the computer as a tool to enhance their comprehension of scientific and technical principles. Discusses strategies used and provides examples of student-generated graphics in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and engineering mechanics. (JN)

Provides a listing of a software graphics program that investigates the law of reflection and Snell's law of refraction. Written in BASIC for the Apple II personal computer. (MVL)

Presents response to a survey in the March and May 1982 issues of the American Association of Physics Teachers "Announcer" on microcomputer use by physics instructors. Provides background information on microcomputers useful in determining choice of system components, including applications development. Appendices give information on machine and…

Discusses chaotic behavior (movement) in a nonlinear system using LOGO programs. Presents several examples with program listings. (MVL)

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)