Despite the importance of computer science education and computational thinking, there have been limited examples of computer science education at K-12 classrooms that authentically represents the work of computer scientists, especially programming. One reason is the lack of a measurable definition of computational thinking and a programming…

The purposes of this study were to study the process of a first-year engineering instructor's design and delivery of a Fluid Mechanics class in online settings and to examine how student perceptions of the instructor's teaching presence related to student satisfaction and student perceived learning during the COVID-19 pandemic in the US. This…

This presentation will focus on the use of live action and video instruction as a method of content dissemination and to motivate students in learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Specifically, this area, dubbed "edutainment", will chronicle different interactions with students, teachers and…

The aims of this study are: (1) to develop iPad-based computer simulations called iSimPhysics that can help people learn Newtonian physics concepts; and (2) to assess its educational benefits and pedagogical usefulness. To facilitate learning, iSimPhysics visualizes abstract physics concepts, and allows for conducting a series of computer…

Phase changes in water are experienced in everyday life but students often struggle to understand mechanisms that regulate them. Human thermal comfort is closely related to humidity, evaporative heat loss and heat transfer. The purpose of the present study is to assist students in the evaluation of human thermal comfort. Such a goal is achievable…

The notion of problem-based physics laboratories enhanced by computer technology has been coined "studio physics" (Wilson, 1994) and has been practised at various institutions for some time (Cummings, Marx, Thornton, & Kuhl, 1999; Williams, MacLatchy, Backman, & Retson, 1997). In recent years, new technology tools have been available to supplement…

The dual purpose of this article is to provide a synthesis of the findings related to the use of computer simulations in physics education and to present implications for teachers and researchers in science education. We try to establish a conceptual framework for the utilization of computer simulations as a tool for learning and instruction in…

Described is the V-scope which is a Micro-Based Laboratory system that provides direct and immediate displays of real motion as spatial images (stroboscopic snapshots), as time graphs of any combination of position, velocity, and acceleration, or as vector diagrams of velocity and acceleration. Illustrations of system components and of typical…

Investigates the effects of two instructional strategies--augmented activation activities vs. expository instruction--and three different presentation formats--microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL), simulation, and computer-based text--on individuals' ability to understand concepts in physics. Indicates significant main effect for presentation…

A learning object is an interactive web-based tool that supports learning by enhancing, amplifying, and guiding the cognitive processes of a learner. To date, no formal research has been done on the use of learning objects in secondary school science classrooms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of learning objects developed for…

Develops a LOGO approach for explaining physics concepts using the microcomputer. Explains the usefulness of LOGO for programing physics problems. Lists several LOGO programs with programing explanations to explain physics concepts. (MVL)

Lists a BASIC program which computes the equilibrium constant as a function of temperature. Suggests use by undergraduates taking a one-year calculus-based physical chemistry course. Notes the program provides for up to four species, typically two reactants and two products. (MVL)

Discusses a computer simulation to teach logic design using a Macintosh computer which allows circuits to be built piece by piece. Describes features of the simulation and presents several schematics drawn by the software. (MVL)

Presented are three computer projects: vector analysis, electric field intensities at various distances, and the Biot-Savart law. Programing suggestions and project results are provided. One month is suggested for each project. (MVL)

Examines if a self-paced, interactive microcomputer delivery system can decrease the time needed and improve the level of mastery as compared with a traditional self-paced instructional approach. Uses high school physics students with five activities and reports that no differences were found. (MVL)