Described is the use of two types of physical sensors, a motion sensor, and a light gate, which enable the microcomputer to be used as a measuring instrument for practical experiments on motion. (KR)

Described is a baton that consists of an unbreakable transparent tube with three inserted light-emitting diodes (LED) and terminal impact buffers that hold batteries and counterweights. The concepts of projectile motion and parabolic paths can be shown by analyzing the path of a thrown baton. (KR)

Described is how an iconic model building software can be used to help students gain a deeper qualitative conceptual understanding of physics concepts. The program, STELLA, links research about misconceptions and new teaching strategies with the use of modern information technology tools. (31 references) (KR)

Provides a computer-assisted instruction program in projectile motion. Tape of program is available from author. (CP)

Provides analytical and experimental comparisons of calculations in which the vertical trajectory of a model rocket is determined. (CP)

Describes the use of a microcomputer as an intervalometer for the control and timing of several flash units to photograph high-speed events. Applies this technology to study the oscillations of a stretched rubber band, the deceleration of high-speed projectiles in water, the splashes of milk drops, and the bursts of popcorn kernels. (MDH)

As the fifth lesson of the Articulated Multimedia Physics Course, instructional materials are presented in this study guide. The subject matter is concerned with graphical presentations, mathematical expressions, and relationships between speed, position, and time. The content is arranged in the scrambled form, and the use of matrix transparencies…

As the sixth lesson of the Articulated Multimedia Physics Course, instructional materials are presented in this study guide with relation to the uniformly accelerated motion of bodies starting from rest. The objective is to teach students how a complete set of equations of motion is derived and how to use them. Free falling bodies near the Earth's…

Discusses the development and use of Personal Assistants for Learning (PALs) computer tutorials for teaching applications of Newton's Laws. Finds that the tutorials were nearly as effective as individual tutoring by expert teachers and considerably more effective than the instruction provided in a well-taught physics class. (Contains over 30…

A self-paced program designed to integrate the use of computers and physics courseware into the regular classroom environment is offered for physics high school teachers in this module on projectile and circular motion. A diversity of instructional strategies including lectures, demonstrations, videotapes, computer simulations, laboratories, and…

Different programs have been developed for the simulation of physics experiments by using TI-57 programmable calculators. Two of these programs, describing the simulation of a successive radioactive decay and the random motion of a gas molecule, are presented. (Author/SK)

Presents an alternative to the use of a radar to determine how fast an individual can serve a tennis ball. Equipped with a tape recorder and a Macintosh computer, students determine the velocity of a tennis ball by analyzing the sounds and echoes heard on the court. (ZWH)

This paper discusses two software packages used in kinematics courses at Purdue University, Calumet (Indiana) and some algorithms written by students for cam design. The first software package, 4BAR, requires the user to define the particular four bar linkage in terms of lengths of the individual links and the angle and distance to the coupler…

Evaluates 16 commercially available courseware packages covering topics for introductory physics. Discusses the price, sub-topics, program type, interaction, time, calculus required, graphics, and comments of each program. Recommends two packages in measurement and vectors, and one-dimensional motion respectively. (YP)

Provided is a review of a high school/college level computer program (for Apple microcomputers) which consists of six simulations designed to introduce students to simple harmonic motion. Includes a discussion of the six simulations and such information as time needed, probable classroom use, source, and current cost. (JM)