Describes a study which analyzed think-aloud protocols of four expert and four novice instructional designers working on a design problem in physics instruction. Differences between novices and experts in problem interpretation, problem analysis, problem representation, solution generation, the solution, internal resources, external resources, and…

A mechanical analogy between the microscopic motion of a charged carrier in an ordinary resistor and the macroscopic motion of a ball falling along a slanted board covered with a lattice of nails is introduced. The Drude model is also introduced to include the case of inelastic collisions. Computer simulation of the motion is described. (KR)

Described is how an iconic model building software can be used to help students gain a deeper qualitative conceptual understanding of physics concepts. The program, STELLA, links research about misconceptions and new teaching strategies with the use of modern information technology tools. (31 references) (KR)

Equipped with a plastic film can and a pin, students can gain a better understanding of chromatic aberrations and inner eye phenomena, light, lenses, pinholes, shadows, and ray diagrams. (ZWH)

Provides a line of reasoning in support of the contention that the equal charge proposition is at best an approximation. Shows how the assumption of equal plate charge on capacitors in series contradicts the conservative nature of the electric field. (ZWH)

Describes an experiment designed to help students gain a better understanding of the characteristics of various electronic components by incorporating a dual-trace oscilloscope in the X-Y mode in addition to direct observations of phase shifts of various signals into a laboratory exercise. (ZWH)

Presents an inexpensive take-home laboratory activity designed to enhance students understanding of atmospheric pressure by allowing them to engage in a hands-on, discovery approach to physics. (ZWH)

Observes that there is as yet no comprehensive history of the Post-World War II "multiversity." Examines the development of Stanford University's Microwave Laboratory. Suggests a framework for the multiversity that includes large, well-funded laboratories, a department with weak central authority, and an emphasis on research over…

Two studies investigated the placement of interesting details in a text by asking 276 undergraduate students what they could recall after reading a text about a physicist and his scientific work. Placement of detail did not affect recall, but overall interestingness of the text did affect recall. (SLD)

Introduces a new sign convention for the object and image distances involving mirrors and lenses. Proposes that the method is easier for students to understand and remember and that it helps clarify the physics concepts involved. (MDH)

Discusses the history of Rudolph Koenig's contribution to the development of acoustical apparatus. Contributions include the clock fork to determine absolute acoustic frequencies, a forerunner of the oscilloscope called the manometric flame, and an acoustic interference apparatus used in the Fourier synthesis of musical sounds. (MDH)

The simple physics behind the mechanism of the toy are explained. Experimental and mathematical steps are given that help in understanding the motion of the doll-pair. The geometry of the setup is described. (KR)

An attempt to clarify the teaching of some of the concepts of thermodynamics through the observation of an experiment with an ordinary refrigeration system is presented. The cycle of operation in the refrigeration system and the individual processes in the cycle are described. (KR)

A technique that uses a three-meter Foucault pendulum and a laser to measure latitude is presented. A 40-meter Foucault pendulum located in Finland and the ways in which it is used are described. The technical details and the plans for a continuously driven laser pendulum are discussed. (KR)

A hypothetical classroom discussion of the concepts of force and inertia in an introductory college physics course provides a vehicle for college teachers to examine the teaching and learning process. In the class session, a question-and-answer/discussion session sparked student insight and inquiry. (MSE)