This paper reports on a study of teacher support in experimental computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) settings where students engage with graphs in real-time labs within the context of school science. Real-time labs are digital devices and software connected to student-controlled sensors or probes that can measure and visualize data…

Describes the use of computers equipped with plotters to predict tides using the known period, phase, and amplitude of the major tidal components. Other demonstrations and projects are described. (RR)

Describes seven computer simulations of laboratory experiments that allow students to direct experiments, make observations, and record data. (MLH)

The major problem of this study was to assess the effect of computer simulated experiments on the attainment of process skills and the acquisition of subject matter content in the high school physics laboratory. Over a 4-month period, 51 students from 2 physics classes were involved in 4 laboratory experiments and simulations. There was a random…

This study investigated the feasibility of using computer-simulated experiments in high school physics and chemistry. Fifteen sections of students enrolled in high school physics and chemistry were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. A series of 10 experiments was done by use of computer simulation in the experimental group;…

The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a series of simulation dialogs utilizing certain computer capabilities. The series of simulations produced in the study parallel the fundamental, inductive experiments developed by the Physical Science Study Committee (PSSC) through which students generalize Newton's Second Law. Students…

Studies the effects of computer-managed self-paced (CMSP) and teacher-managed group-paced (TMGP) laboratory instruction on the attitudes toward science of ninth-grade students. All students were enrolled in an introduction to chemistry and physics course. Posttests revealed that groups did not differ significantly on achievement measures but the…

Describes a technique which gives an automatic and accurate assessment of photosynthetic oxygen liberation with graphical results available immediately. This program takes readings from an oxygen electrode and a photocell simultaneously. The types of results and unique features of the technique are discussed. (ML)

Explains how computer and game port interfacing reduces the time required for data collection and organization and also stimulates student interest in science laboratory exercises. Illustrates this approach through a description of a population-variation lab. Includes diagrams for the construction of the interface box. (ML)

Reviews Apple computer science programs that are useful in a laboratory setting. Includes laboratory simulations, uses of Apple as a functioning lab instrument, and dissection programs. (ML)

Research indicates that the educational effectiveness of Microcomputer-Based Laboratories (MBL) may be due to the real time nature of the experience. This article describes a study where kinesthetic feedback was completely removed by giving students only visual replications of a motion situation. If simultaneity of perception is the important…

Reports experiences during a two-year period in introducing the computer to the laboratory and students to the computer as a laboratory instrument. Describes a working philosophy, data acquisition system, and experiments. Summarizes the laboratory procedures of nine experiments, covering mechanics, heat, electromagnetism, and optics. (YP)

Introduces two hands-on experiences, related to rotational motion and moment of inertia. Discusses the experimental procedures and provides figure of apparatus. (YP)

Describes the Mississippi Governor's School, an intensive three-week summer school for gifted high school students. Explains format of major courses, use of the American Chemical Society computer course in polymer chemistry, discussion sections, and hands-on laboratory. (JM)