Describes an experiment enabling students to apply concept of diffraction, determine limits of their color perception, learn how to measure wavelength with a simple apparatus, observe continuous and line spectra, and associate colors with corresponding wavelengths. The homemade diffraction-grating spectrometer used is easily constructed. (JN)

Describes inexpensive method of determining harmonic content of a repetitive signal such as a sound wave and demonstrations of the precession of a bicycle wheel and inversion shadows on the retina. Also describes a resonance demonstrator (made from scrap material) driven by a portable jigsaw. (JN)

Trends in science teaching equipment include digital instrumentation and use of microcomputers as general purpose laboratory instruments. Describes interface units which exploit this capability of the microcomputer. Also describes materials supporting the teaching of electronics. (JN)

Reports results of an informal questionnaire sent to university physics departments (N=33) to determine attitudes towards Nuffield and traditional A-level physics. Concludes that Nuffield students perform better at practical work, universities prefer the traditional background, and Nuffield students lack mathematics skills. (DC)

Discusses three avenues of problem-solving research: misconceiving natural laws, processing information, and constructing solutions. Suggests that the change in emphasis from problem to problem solver and the key role of "physics" problems are unifying aspects of the research. (JN)

Funds (1983) for National Science Foundation (NSF), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) research programs include $1,092,200,000 (NSF), $5.5 billion (NASA), and $119 million (EPA). NSF's science education activities were raised to $30 million in spite of the Administration's plan to phase…

Three different simulation and gaming techniques are described in detail as examples of exercises that provide education through science, demonstrating how science and technology fit into the broad political, social, and environmental context. These games and simulations also cultivate useful skills and desirable attitudes. (Author/JN)

Presents data on student performance in a competency-based, multiple-opportunity format physics course, indicating that costs are related to character of examination questions and comprehensional modes of students. Compares costs for single/multiple trial formats, showing that multiple-trial opportunity has lower costs and a higher yield of…

Mineralogy has become increasingly linked to chemistry and physics during recent years. This relationship between chemistry, physics, and mineralogy, as indicated by the content of conference papers, research studies, and physical/chemical laboratory procedures used in mineralogy, is reviewed. Creative applications of established mineralogic…

Describes a demonstration to initiate discussion about electrostatic effects. Also describes and evaluates a Magnetic Bubble Apparatus, a device which exhibits several phenomena related to magnetic domain formation. Includes manufacturer's response to the evaluation. (JN)

Results of a questionnaire survey of 455 two- and four-year institutions on the status on noncalculus physics courses are presented. Responses from 265 questionnaires focus on enrollment, textbooks, reasons for textbook changes, laboratory manuals, and nationally standardized set of laboratory experiments. Selected comments from individual…

Reviews software produced by Cross Educational Software to teach college-advanced high school students how to determine forces/torques acting on rigid bodies in static equilibrium. Designed for use with Apple II/II+ (Applesoft), 10 minutes to one hour are required for the five low to moderate interactive tutorial programs. (Author/JN)

Describes four body-lever models (biceps, triceps, back lever when lifting, foot lever and Achilles tendon muscle) used in noncalculus physics courses. Instructions for constructing the wooden models are provided. Also describes an improvement on a centripetal-force apparatus so that it is easier to operate. (JN)

Focusing on long-term arms-race education, discusses what physicists can do to help provide students and the public with technical information needed to understand issues involved in the nuclear cold war. Suggestions provided focus on public programs, media, publications, education of physicists, arms-race courses, "enrichment in physics courses,"…

Describes a multidisciplinary project/experiment in which undergraduate students repaired a nonfunctional Helium-Neon laser. Includes experimental procedures used and results. (JN)