A domain-specific information processing model of problem solving behavior in elementary electrostatics was developed. Instruction based on this model was evaluated in a large university-level physics course. The experimental design utilized treatment and instructor as crossed factors. Dependent variables included a test of problem solving…

One in a series of core instructional materials for apprentices to use during the first or second years of apprentice-related subjects training, this booklet deals with basic physical science. The first section consists of an outline of the content and scope of the core materials as well as a self-assessment pretest. Covered in the four…

This study identified the needs and concerns of English speaking public secondary school biology, chemistry, and physics teachers in the five geographic regions of the Republic of Lebanon. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, a modified version of the Moore Assessment Profile (an instrument developed to assess the needs of…

This booklet contains a programmed lesson on oceanic circulation. It is designed to allow students to progress through the subject at their own speed. Since it is written in linear format, it is suggested that students proceed through the program from "frame" to succeeding "frame." Instructions for students on how to use the booklet are included.…

After publication in 1982 of the Royal Society report "Science Education 11-18 in England and Wales," the Physics Education Joint Committee of the Royal Society and Institute of Physics was established. A working party of this Joint Committee has now produced this reduced-content 16+ syllabus in physics. The main intention of the working…

The conception of and attitude toward technology of 13-year-old students was investigated. Twelve students were interviewed to find out what they thought of technology and how important it was to them. Other students (N=48) responded to 10 open-ended questions to determine their ideas about technology. Results were then used to construct a…

The application of physical principles in solving mathematics problems have often been neglected in the teaching of physics or mathematics, especially at the secondary school level. This paper discusses how to apply the mechanical principles to geometry problems via concrete examples, which aims at providing insight and inspirations to physics or…

Summarizes the historical development of lasers, involving basic concepts in physics, applied technology, advanced experimental techniques, and human interactions. Indicates that the potential for invention of the laser had been with us at least 30 years before the event actually occurred. (CC)

Discusses a model for the collinear collision of an atom with a diatomic molecule on a simple potential surface. Indicates that the model can provide a framework for thinking about molecular collisions and reveal many factors which affect the dynamics of reactive and inelastic collisions. (CC)

Discusses some experimental units which are prepared at the Center for History of Physics of the American Institute of Physics and intended to serve in class and science programs to enhance public understanding of science. The materials can serve to portray the scientists as people with human concerns and motivations. (CC)

suggests a preliminary model for evaluating teaching procedures, involving cost effectiveness, teaching formats, and significant variables in teaching. Included is a summary of suggested patterns for physics teachings. (CC)

An observational instrument for physics instruction was developed and used in 126 class periods in courses taught by the lecture method and by an audio-tutorial method. Results indicate higher examination performance correlated positively with time spent stating and rephrasing problems, drawing diagrams on blackboards, and questioning or…

This document provides eleven year trend data of physics and astronomy degrees granted at the bachelors, masters, and doctors level. Undergraduate and graduate student enrollment in physics and astronomy are also included. (SL)