Presents abstracts and detailed schedules for the 1985 summer meeting of the American Association of Physics Teachers. Participants and descriptions for various workshops and symposia are listed. Topic areas include: computers; lecture and demonstration techniques; commercial presentations; radios; laboratories; and others. Includes status report…

Examines the effect of refutation text structure (text that contrasts correct ideas with incorrect ones) on students' misconceptions of Newtonian mechanics, noting that refutation text is efffective in getting students to change their prior misconceptions. Also suggests two ways to help students abandon misconceptions that are not refuted in a…

Describes the general features of a new, optional learning unit that was developed and implemented in Israel high schools. The unit, which focuses on physics in medical diagnosis, deals with real practical problems and does not replace traditional physics. (JN)

Explores parallels between understanding of chemistry for younger teenagers with the learning of a language by younger children. Also discusses: (1) teacher perspective and the development of core science; (2) religion and science; and (3) the physics examinations of the Department of Science and Art. (JN)

Suggests a microcomputer/mastery-learning combination for more effective use of teacher time and management of records, tests, grading, and student directions. Mastery learning is discussed along with the many advantages microcomputers can provide toward this goal. (DH)

Telephone equipment and television monitors allow university faculty to provide high-quality physics courses for secondary students. Equipment, technology, and course format for this remote site instructional program are discussed. Results indicate differences in small versus large school, but participants believe the project offers a solution for…

Describes (in separate articles): computer simulations in science education; how junior high school students revised an experiment; a framework for assessment in science; physics, relevance, and understanding; a science module for a sixth form general studies course; and assessment of providing science education for the 16-19 age group. (JN)

Describes a simple form of metal detector, discussing the principles of signal generation, and the detection and discrimination of induced eddy current signals from the located objects. Includes a rough schematic of the detector. (JM)

Describes the fine-beam cathode-ray tube, explaining observed phenomena from a visual, qualitative viewpoint. Discusses the reason for the fineness of the beam and provides the theoretical basis for the observed circular shape of the beam when the Helmholtz field is applied. (JM)

Discusses the psychophysics of sound localization and the spatial attributes of sound, attempting to explain some of the methods used to produce more realistic sound images. Topics include: direct and indirect sound; localization and sound images; precedence effect; and techniques for creating spaciousness and for sonic image enhancement. (JM)

Evaluates two computer programs for Apple II which provide drill and practice in Newton's laws of motion and in work-energy relationships. Student performance is recorded on the diskette allowing the teacher to view the number of questions completed and percentage correct. (JM)

Describes a program developed to: increase numbers of physics teachers; provide additional training in physics to teachers who needed it; further stimulate high school teachers; and to serve as resource center. Offers ideas and encouragement to other colleges and universities in rural settings who wish to create such a program. (JM)

A simple device used to demonstrate the main features of primary color addition is described. Materials needed to construct the device, procedures used, and typical results are discussed. (JN)

The Nuffield "0"-level physics course (United Kingdom) and the Physical Sciences Study Committee course (United States) stressed preparation of professional scientists rather than "physics for all." Although they were important curriculum developments, the courses have done harm to the development of an entirely new style of…

Discusses children's conceptions of dynamics, comparing them to those of scientists and examining how they are acquired. Also discusses alternative aims of teaching dynamics at the elementary and junior high school levels, providing instructional strategies to achieve these aims. (JN)