A computer-assisted instructional program used at the United States Naval Academy to provide students in introductory physics with practice in problem-solving is described. The author first discusses the rationale for using a time-shared, tutorial approach and presents the steps involved in building a tutorial problem drill. Following this, the…

The Paris Faculty of Science is developing programs in computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Their first goal is to develop "questionnaires" (instructional sequences) administered by teletype machines which check on a student's knowledge in an area and draw his attention to basic concepts, definitions, and theorems in that area. Using an…

This report describes a project to develop and test a number of individualized vocational physics modules designed to be laboratory-oriented, written at the lowest reading level, and supplemented with audiovisual materials. The report includes descriptions of the procedures used to develop, pilot test, and disseminate the materials. Each of the…

This handbook is designed to assist teachers of technical mathematics in developing practically-oriented curricula for their students. The underlying assumption is that, while technology students are not a breed apart, their needs and orientation are to the concrete, rather than the abstract. It describes the nature, scope, and content of…

Describes a six-week summer science institute for providing secondary students with research experience conducted at East Carolina University. (SL)

Suggests a way to change the role of physics teacher. Discusses the teacher as a coach, reducing anxiety, team cooperation, and a grading system including "forgiving learning" which recognizes student's progress. (YP)

Presents examples to show the ubiquitous nature of geometry. Illustrates the relationship between the perimeter and area of two-dimensional objects and between the area and volume of three-dimensional objects. Provides examples of distribution systems, optimum shapes, structural strength, biological heat engines, man's size, and reflection and…

Presents a brief description of the Dutch school system's structure. Describes the most important issues that have contributed to the development of physics education resulting from changes with respect to the physics curriculum, the final physics examination, and stimulation by a Dutch curriculum development project. (RT)

Presented are two case reports about an instructional experiment. "Peer Perspectives" uses nonspecialized faculty to experience some aspects of an introductory course for providing perspective, insight, and feedback to those who wish to make their courses more appropriate to nonmajors. (YP)

Presented are two case studies on the perspective of the history of science. Provided are the contributions of 12 famous scientists with their historical illustrations and diagrams. Five conclusions are drawn from these studies. (YP)

Presents the results of a survey of engineers in R&D. Reports 1987 pay raises, highest academic degree, salary range, age and experience for 12 engineering fields. Compares these results to other years. Concludes that many variables led to overall gains for metallurgists and biologists and losses for mathematicians and ceramists. (CW)

Attempts to show that not only can density be taught to lower ability pupils but that by doing so, there is the possibility of assisting pupils to develop their reasoning powers. Lists teaching activities that help in this process. (CW)

Describes the history and structure of physics education in secondary schools in China. Discusses the selection of course content. Cites the historical failure of the cultural revolution for the present bias of theoretical over practical physics. Discusses the China-U.S. physics examination and application project. (CW)

Celebrates the 300th anniversary of "Principia Mathematica" written by Sir Isaac Newton. Reviews Newton's life and the circumstances which relate to "Principia." Relates the contributions of other scientists of Newton's time. Discusses Newton's life after the publication of "Principia." (CW)

Discusses: (1) feature of videodisc technology which make it a versatile educational tool; (2) availability of videodiscs for teaching physics and astronomy; and (3) example of the ways these videodiscs can be used in instructional settings. Tables listing physics and astronomy videodiscs (title, author, source, cost, and abstract) are included.…