Describes a project in which a group of primary school students tried out a range of IT activities using Xemplar Pocket Book computers. Demonstrates that they improved the quality and range of pupils' learning and supported literacy in science. Explains that pocket computers do not replace but complement the classroom PC. (Author/ASK)

Presents a study that introduces data logging using portable computers as part of an investigative approach to science. Working with control and experimental classes of 14- and 16-year-olds, results suggest that data logging can have an impact on graphing skills at age 14 which is not necessarily repeatable at age 16. (Author/AIM)

Provides helpful tips regarding classroom use of computers in a cooperative-learning environment. Comments on student computer ratio, interdependence, individual accountability, heterogeneous grouping, shared responsibility, and good working relationships. (ZWH)

Describes a study conducted in undergraduate science classes in Singapore using computer modeling and simulation. Reports that the use of computer models and simulations proved to be valuable in explaining many aspects of science. Students reported that three-dimensional images helped them in their understanding. Contains 22 references.…

Reviews the main principles of interfacing and discusses the software developed to perform kinetic data capture and analysis with a BBC microcomputer linked to a recording spectrophotometer. Focuses on the steps in software development. Includes results of a lactate dehydrogenase assay. (ML)

Describes a way to use computers in teaching chemistry, in this case in a demonstration lesson on supercooling using a thermister in a game port to interface the computer with cooling phenyl salicylate. Discusses the advantages over the traditional method of instruction. (CW)

Investigated a microcomputer-based system for the diagnosis and remediation of three Aristotelian alternative conceptions of force and motion held by eighth-grade physical science students. Reports that computer simulations exemplifying canonical conceptions facilitate alteration of students' naive conceptions to a significant degree. Suggests…

This note describes an inexpensive means for making high resolution analog voltage measurements using the parallel printer port of a standard IBM PC or compatible. (PR)

With the advent of inexpensive microcomputers, the availability of microcomputers in the schools has mushroomed. Teacher training in the use of microcomputers has not kept pace with the increased availability of computers. There is little current information about how physics and physical science teachers actually use microcomputers in their…

Describes a set of computer-based learning modules designed to teach nonscientists to think and reason like scientists. Discusses the intent of the 10 dialogs in this series. Gives ideas for use in science classes. (CW)

Describes a single input/single output feedback control system design program for IBM PC and compatible microcomputers. Uses a heat exchanger temperature control loop to illustrate the various applications of the program. (ML)

Identifies problems students have learning physics and explains how microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) tools can help the learner. Describes the possibilities for instruction with MBL instruments and stresses the pedagogical advantages it has in the sciences. (ML)

Explains the use of the 3-dimensional analytic geometry method to find values for a field geology problem. Gives a description of the mathematical theory for this method which can be applied to data obtained by drilling as well as open surfaces, and a computer program. (RT)

Input from constructivist scholars and science teachers helps develop future biologists and biology teachers who better understand scientific investigation through their development and use of investigative software, as well as through laboratory and field activities. (SM)

The Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS), with support from the National Science Foundation, is conducting a three-year project to develop a model for implementing educational computing in school science. This paper explains the tentative model in detail and presents the results of a pilot test of the model, which project staff conducted…