Describes method for analyzing the diffusion of scientific journals using the Rasch model as the measuring instrument. Explains why determining the information that underlies citations via diffusion variable is a powerful informetrics tool for uncovering regularities in information related processes when counts are used. Includes graphs and…

Presents a rear-end car accident scenario to teach about forces and kinetic energy in a problem-based learning format. Includes four parts: (1) "A Bad Day for Sandy Dayton"; (2) "The Emergency Room"; (3) "The Facts of the Case"; and (4) "Judgement Day". Discusses the major issues of the questions, introduces scientific concepts, and initiates…

Considers some of the implications of replacing, for the purposes of physics instruction, algebraic notation with programming language. Introduces a framework based on two theoretical constructs. Concludes that algebra-physics can be characterized as the physics of balance and equilibrium and programming-physics as the physics of processes and…

Describes the designing and testing of a model of in-service physics teacher training based on the idea that it is important to help teachers reconsider their disciplinary knowledge and work with other teachers on the same subject to make it suitable for teaching. (Contains 16 references.) (Author/ASK)

Uses a computer interface to measure terminal voltage versus current characteristic of a variety of batteries, their series and parallel combinations, and the variation with discharge. The concept of an internal resistance demonstrates that current flows through the battery determine the efficiency and serve to introduce Thevenin's theorem.…

Describes how the gas laws are an excellent vehicle for introducing the steps of the scientific method. Students can use balloons and a simple apparatus to observe changes in various gas parameters, develop ideas about the changes they see, collect numerical data, test their ideas, derive simple equations for the relationships, and use the…

Utilizes the play "Faust" to understand physics. Makes a struggle to promote the odd idea of a weightless particle. Emphasizes the fact that new ideas in physical science become more accessible, comprehensible, and familiar through dramatization. (SAH)

Uses Galileo's 'jumping-hill' experiment as an historical element to improve science teaching in the classroom. Illustrates that the experiment can stimulate an animated discussion in the classroom, even if precise historic circumstances are not mentioned. The historical dimensions bring some color into the lesson, which increases attention. (SAH)

Focuses on the selection, classification, and comparative presentation of various proposals concerning the contribution of the history of physics in physics education that have been designed and/or carried out as part of either research or curriculum development during the last century. (Author/SAH)

Describes a technique using two cooperative learning strategies, Student Teams-Achievement Divisions and Teams-Games-Tournament, to teach science. Students are assigned to teams of three or four and compete against each other during the course of the school year. This competition is a unique way to motivate students at any level. (SAH)

Addresses the use of mathematics when studying the physics of electromagnetism. Focuses on common electromagnetic concepts and their associated mathematical representation and arithmetical tools. Concludes that most students do not understand the significant aspects of physical situations and have difficulty using relationships and models specific…

Interactive digital video enables computer visualization techniques that help students to collect, analyze, and model two-dimensional motion data. This article describes and evaluates five activities developed for the physics classroom with the use of this technology in mind. Activities explore concepts such as space, time, frames of reference,…

Given the evolution of biology, chemistry, and physics over the past 70 years, educators should question the traditional sequencing of high school science courses. Reversing the sequence helps students see the logical progression of modern scientific thought, from forces and the movement of objects to molecular structures and the development of…

Details three lessons that explore volume, weight, and mass. (MKR)