Reports the results of a survey of graduates, employers, and instructors of engineering technology programs for the essential topics in mechanical engineering technology, mechanical drafting/design technology, manufacturing engineering technology, and industrial engineering technology. Identifies the proficiency level suggested for classwork and…

Discusses when alternating and magnetic fields are independent. Provides examples of experiments involving mains hum and the detection of induced signals. Describes electric circuits and oscilloscope displays. (Author/YP)

Describes some experiments for investigating the speed of atomic gas beams and displaying their atomic character. Discusses the experimental apparatus and the time-of-flight method. (YP)

Reviews two videotapes on motion: (1) "Demonstrations of Physics, Volume 1, Motion" and (2) "Center of Mass Motion." Describes the content, strengths, and weaknesses of each video. (YP)

Describes the mechanism of bicycle computers functioning as speedometers and timers. Discusses why the computers do not display the continuously changing readings and show the correct values at higher speeds. (YP)

The Grignard reagent used in the laboratory synthesis of organic compounds is the product resulting from the reaction of an alkyl or aryl halide with elemental magnesium. Describes the structure, formation, and some reactions of the reagent. (YP)

Describes an experiment producing a visible spectrum with inexpensive equipment available in the physics classroom. Discusses some related equations, apparatus settings, and instructional methods. (YP)

Described is a simple technique for isolating DNA from halophilic bacteria. Materials, procedure, and additional experiments are outlined. It is stated that the DNA obtained will be somewhat contaminated with cellular proteins and RNA. Offers a procedure for greater purification. (RT)

Discusses a demonstration of vertical collision of two balls. Shows the theoretical height ratio using mathematical expression and diagrams. Compares it with researchers' experimental results. Expands the two-ball collision to multi-ball system. (YP)

Describes a factorial experiment that is used as a laboratory exercise in a research methods course. Uses a Howard-Dolman depth perception apparatus, combining the factors of viewing condition and rod orientation to illustrate the nature of an interaction and the necessity of an additional analysis of simple main effects. (Author/LS)

Presents laboratory activities focusing on the development of sexually mature gametophytes from single-celled spores. Includes techniques for culture and manipulation of gametophyte development from spores that are applicable for hands-on activities for students at all levels. (MKR)

An exercise that uses a common bacterium, E. coli, in great numbers, to detect a demonstrable change in the ability of some cells to become resistant to the common antibiotic streptomycin is presented. The procedure for preparing and pouring the gradient antibiotic plates is provided. The advantages of using the Basic Fuchsin in the agar are…

The development of a curriculum that integrates laboratory, field, and nonlaboratory experiences in an undergraduate biology department is described. Some of the laboratory experiences provided students in a Principles of Biology course and how other parts of the upper division curriculum are structured around these key experiments are discussed.…

Discusses experimental work with computer-simulated microworlds as a means for overcoming the tension between laboratory research and field research in psychology. Topics addressed include characteristics of microworlds; examples of microworlds; and three approaches to research with microworlds, including the individual differences approach, case…