A "nuclear arms race semester" achieved depth and breadth when several single-discipline approaches to nuclear studies were unified through an integrating seminar. Components included American history, freshmen composition, physics, and the seminar. The program was successful for students and faculty, supporting unified studies approach…

Explains the principles of the Doppler ultrasound technique and reviews its potential applications to the teaching of cardiovascular physiology. Identifies the instrumentation needed for this technique; provides examples and illustrations of the waveforms from the ultrasound blood velocimeter. (ML)

Examines several areas to be considered in developing physics syllabi. They include (1) the objectives of physics teaching and learning; (2) physics as an experience, based on realistic expectations of what 14- to 16-year-olds are capable of; and (3) the kinds of experiences in which students can succeed (including computer experiences). (JN)

Describes three demonstrations/activities that involve forces: (1) a canoe-like boat made from copper window screen; (2) magnetic forces with a paper clip and ceramic magnetic; and (3) an "icemobile" machine that cuts ice cubes without an obvious source of energy. (DH)

Evaluates the Measurement Module (TEL-Atomic, Incorporated), a real time data capture and display instrument which (according to the manufacturer) was designed primarily for use in demonstrations. Includes comments on the module's specifications and features, software, documentation, and student laboratory use. The module is compatible with Apple…

Outlines three projects which have been designed for teaching electronics to ages 11-13, 13-16, and 16-18. Aims, content, approach, and equipment are discussed with guidelines for teacher use. Indicates that work with microprocessors (alongside Nuffield style analogue work) should help digital electronics receive greater emphasis in secondary…

Describes how color graphics are built up on microcomputer displays and how a range of colors can be produced. Discusses the logic of color formation, noting that adding/subtracting color can be conveniently demonstrated. Color generating techniques in physics (resistor color coding and continuous spectrum production) are given with program…

This study used a microcomputer program which diagnosed and remediated an alternative conception of velocity. Results show computer simulations are credible representations of reality and that the remedial part of the program produces significant conceptual changes in students holding the alternative conception. (Author/JN)

Discusses problems and pitfalls of working with single-pan balances and methods used to advertise their accuracy. Investigated manufacturers knowledge of buoyancy effects, relating provisions and recommendations made by various companies. Provides a routine for intercalibration of weight using dummy weights of approximately known mass. (JM)

Reviews courseware (Apple II) providing laboratory simulations in atomic physics. Although material is not user-friendly and requires some background, the animations are good representations of electron mass, Thompson e/m, Millikan oil-drop, and mass spectrometer. Recommended for classroom demonstration purposes at high school or introductory…

Explains: (1) the "standard" atmospheric pressure demonstration using an empty duplicating fluid can and heated water; and (2) a variation of this demonstration using an aluminum soft drink can. (DH)

Discusses changes in the revised Nuffield advanced level physics course. Areas addressed include units of study (including course content and topics), teachers' and students' guides, other guides, computing, and course examinations. (JN)

Describes an experiment for plotting equipotential curves in which the normally used electrometer is replaced by a null-deflecting potentiometer, and in which the uniform resistance wire is substituted by carbon-impregnated conductive paper. Procedures and sample plot/results (including graphic analysis) are provided. (JM)

Proposes a method for dealing with units that require involvement of units of each physical quantity at every stage of a calculation. Preliminary ideas on algebra and the concept of a physical quantity, equations relating two or more units, calculations of physical quantities, and logarithms are considered. (JM)

The current work reports a research that aimed to update the curriculum for the teaching of Physics. Topics from modern and contemporaneous theories are generally put aside in secondary school classes, for both course programs and formal university background designed to teachers of Physics focus on classic topics. We present the results of some…