Utilizes the computer for analysis of the indices of refraction of several liquids in the PSSC refraction lab. (CP)

Described is a situation where students are allowed to enlist the aid of a computer graphing program to produce graphs for their lab reports. (KR)

Presents a computer program that uses radial and transverse star movements to make approximations of the closest approach in light years. In addition using the present actual visual magnitude the greatest magnitude attained is calculated. (Author/GS)

Discusses how computers can help students learn to design experiments, collect data, and quickly analyze that data both mathematically and graphically. Demonstrates some of the capabilities of the spreadsheet for these purposes with examples of data from gas law experiments. (JJK)

Describes the electrical and material characteristics of a wide variety of sensors and switches, as well as methods for connecting them to computers that are equipped with a joystick interface. Includes a BASIC computer program that facilitates automation of science experiments and storage of data gathered with simple transducers and sensors.…

Presents a predator-prey simulation which involves students in collecting data, solving problems, and making predictions on the evolution of prey populations. Provides directives on how to perform the chi-square test and also includes an Applesoft BASK program that performs the calculations. (ML)

Describes use of electronic model to simulate electrical patterns resulting from nerve cell interactions in the brain. Resembles nerve cell activity realistically in that the model produces signals above a set threshold, its firing activity varies, a refractory period is required before second firing, and it displays plasticity. (CS)

Discusses the use of computers in physics education as a tool in individual student research projects for simulating both simple and more complicated phenomena. Reviews IBM compatible software associated with computer-assisted instruction in physics education. (PR)

A computer program that simulates the random evolution of a metabolic pathway is given. The program shows that natural selection preserves favorable traits if they occur in a specific sequence. (KR)

Presented is an activity in which students work in research teams to gather data, integrate computer analyses, and discover the relationships between variables by using a second class lever. A diagram of the lever, a list of processes involved in this activity, and an idealized data table are included. (KR)

Reviews the use of spreadsheets and gives examples of how they can be adapted for data analysis in a science laboratory situation. Highlights the benefits and limitations of this approach for students. (ML)

Describes new software called "PopGenetics" that is useful for conducting hands-on laboratory activities that illustrate population genetics. Users investigate the effects of selection and random drift on changes in allelic frequencies, the effect of mutation, and interactions among these three parameters. Designed for use on Macintosh…

An interactive computer-assisted learning program written for the BBC microcomputer to teach the basic principles of genetic engineering is described. Discussed are the hardware requirements software, use of the program, and assessment. (Author/CW)

Three interactive computer-assisted learning programs are described. The use of tissues from freshly killed frogs is simulated, including the isolated sciatic nerve, the sciatic nerve-gastrocnemius muscle, and the in situ heart. (KR)