Described is a physics experiment in which carbon dioxide cartridges mounted on a wheel with a spark timer can be utilized to measure the energy release of the cartridges. (SL)

Describes the design, construction, and performance of a low-cost, transversely excited molecular nitrogen laser. Suggests simple experiments and demonstrations using this laser. (MLH)

A discrepant event is a happening contrary to our current beliefs. Discrepant events are said to be useful in clarifying concepts. This is one of the interesting features of current theories of constructivism. The story of Mpemba's ice cream is quite well known, but it is the educational aspects of the experiment that are of interest in this…

This report provides information on the size and citizenship of the incoming graduate physics and astronomy class and describes student characteristics such as gender and educational background. Data are from the American Institute of Physics Enrollments and Degrees surveys for the 1998-1999 and 1999-2000 academic years. In 1998-1999 there were…

This project description is designed to show how graphing calculators and calculator-based laboratories (CBLs) can be used to explore topics in physics and health sciences. The activities address such topics as respiration, heart rate, and the circulatory system. Teaching notes and calculator instructions are included as are blackline masters. (MM)

This book, part of The Exploratorium science "snackbook" series, explains science with a hands-on approach. Activities include: (1) "3-D Shadow"; (2) "Bits and Bytes"; (3) "Circuit Workbench"; (4) "Diamagnetic Repulsion"; (5) "Film Can Racer"; (6) "Fractal Patterns"; (7) "Hoop Nightmares"; (8) "Hydraulic Arm"; (9) "Hyperbolic Slot"; (10) "Light…

This paper argues that human agency as a causal factor in behavior must be considered in any model of behavior and behavior disorders. Since human agency is historically tied to the issue of consciousness, to argue that consciousness plays a causal role in behavior requires a plausible explanation of consciousness. This paper proposes that…

In fall 1999, the 762 degree-granting physics departments in the United States were asked to provide information on their current enrollments and recent degrees, and data were received from 93% of the departments. The number of individuals receiving physics bachelor's degrees was at a 40-year low, with 3,646 degrees conferred in the class of 1999.…

This paper describes major changes undertaken in two undergraduate physics courses from traditional lecture method to an inquiry-based method that facilitates active student engagement and changes in the modeling approach to learning. Students' conceptual understanding of physics concepts were evaluated by quasi-experimental design, and the Reform…

This book addresses questions of multiple representations in human reasoning and learning. Computational approaches to learning with multiple representations are introduced, and the role of multiple representations in teaching is discussed. The following chapters are included in Part I: Multiple Representations in Learning Concepts form Physics…

A glance at any newspaper shows that graphs play an important part in presenting data to the public. It appears self-evident that children need to develop "graphical literacy" as part of their mathematics education. As part of a series of mathematically orientated science activities in the Practical Mechanics in Primary Mathematics project, 102…

In fall 2002, the American Institute of Physics asked the 735 physics departments, the 34 combined physics and astronomy departments, and the 37 separate astronomy departments in the United States to provide information on both their current student enrollments and the degrees they conferred in the previous academic year. Data were received from…

In fall 2000, the 770 degree-granting physics departments in the United States were asked to provide information on their current enrollments and recent degrees granted, and responses were received from 98% of the departments. Findings show that the number of individuals receiving physics bachelors degrees increased substantially after a decade of…

This assessment sample provides information on the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) for grade 10 science. The sample consists of six items taken from the test booklet and scoring guides for the six items. The items assess ecosystems, mechanics, and data analysis. (MM)