Described are engineering programs that have used automated data acquisition systems to implement data collection and analyze experiments. Applications include a biochemical engineering laboratory, heat transfer performance, engineering materials testing, mechanical system reliability, statistical control laboratory, thermo-fluid laboratory, and a…

Described is a simple circuit with which students can observe the effect of common dielectric materials in a capacitor and measure the dielectric constant of a piece of paper. Discussed are the theory, apparatus construction, and experimental procedures for this activity. (CW)

Suggestions for the design and production of power supplies and meters for use in school physics laboratories and classrooms are provided. Details of these apparatus are given including circuit diagrams. (CW)

Outlines the stages of a research-development cycle based on experiences with a Dutch physics curriculum development project (PLON). Discusses two topics: the legitimation of specific contents of the curricula and the attention to lay ideas on scientific concepts. (Author/YP)

Presented is a study designed to describe the characteristics, goals, and instructional strategies of high school science teachers in Israel. The study also attempted to identify factors which explain differences between teachers of different science content and provide explanations for the differential implementation of curricula in biology,…

Reviewed are six programs at different colleges and universities which provide research opportunities for undergraduate students in physics, astronomy, marine biology, meteorology, and anthropology. Background, features, and accomplishments of the programs are discussed. (CW)

Discussed are some of the reasons for and arguments against teaching the history of physics to physics majors. The course goals, philosophy, and content are described. Sources of material are listed. An outline of the course content, and a bibliography used to develop the course are included. (CW)

Described is a two-year course for non-college-bound high school students called Principles of Technology. The goals, design, and units of the course are discussed. Criticism of the course is reviewed. (CW)

Reviewed are two 35MM slide sets "Halley's Comet Revealed" and "Supernova 1987A"; and a videotape entitled "Experiments; Physics Level 1. Magnetic Fields." Features, availability, strengths and weaknesses are discussed. (CW)

Explores how constructivism is important to changes taking place in physics education, especially in curriculum development and teaching. Presents an example illustrating children's conceptions of light. Twenty-six references are listed. (YP)

Describes some research studies, contents of a videotape, students' discussion of nuclear power and other educational aspects of the topic. Ten references are listed. (YP)

Presents ideas on how common household light bulbs can be used to develop interest in learning physics. Focuses on supermarket data taking and analyses, filament temperatures, detective work with three-way bulbs, and lifetime statistics. (YP)

An understanding of the important concepts of electrical safety can be developed without the concept of potential. Stresses the idea of current flow and the hazards involved. Discusses ground-fault circuit breakers. Includes diagrams on safe and faulty circuits which could lead to electrocution. (Author/MVL)

Discusses some endeavors to alleviate the problems associated with the high school-college interface in Australia. Describes three sources of remedies: high school teachers, high school students, and college students. (YP)

Describes the diversity of channels through which the cause of science is being promoted and the special efforts being made to involve females in science and technology. Topics include the background of science popularization, tradition, innovation, television programs, science museums, the role of universities, youth activities, computers, and…