The history of the sciences in America in 1880 is described as a time of considerable vitality in the disciplines of earth and life sciences. The natural scientific resources of the American continent are credited as contributing to the vitality. Pluralism of institutional support is discussed with a historical perspective. (SA)

Focuses on human information processes and problem solving. Although a large body of knowledge is prerequisite to acquiring skill, the authors state that knowledge must be indexed by patterns that guide the person in a fraction of a second to relevant parts of the knowledge store. (Author/SA)

Lists titles of articles, notes, and letters together with the names of their authors for Volume 18 of the "Physics Teacher." Classification is based upon an analysis of the contents rather than upon the titles alone. (CS)

Some simple undergraduate laboratory experiments are described, which verify the energy-momentum relationship of special relativity. These experiments have been designed either to be used as classroom demonstrations or to be carried out by second-year students. (Author/JN)

Describes experiments, including the measurement of the magnetic moment of a magnet, using noncalibrated materials. Results of these experiments can be checked using calibrated equipment. (SK)

Discusses modular courses in technology, their aims, materials used, resources, and the philosophy behind their design and implementation. (GA)

Describes a series of computer tutorial programs which are intended to help college students in introductory physics courses. Information about these programs, which are either calculus or algebra-trig based, is presented. (HM)

Instructional strategies are described for a one-year program at the University of Washington which attempts to increase the number of minority students being admitted to health science professions. The strategies focus on the necessity of the laboratory, reasoning ability, examinations, and homework. (Author/SA)

Discusses the application of computer-assisted learning methods to the interpretation of infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectra; and outlines extensions into the area of integrated spectroscopy. (Author/CMV)

Describes the Career Oriented Pre-Technical Physics (COPP) curriculum. This curriculum, comprising 29 modules, uses a hands-on, practical, nature to stress the career-vocational aspects of physics. Students design their personal curricula and proceed at their own pace. Evaluative information, comparing this program with other physics curricula, is…

The need for communication between mathematics and physics teachers is discussed. Suggests that there is a problem among students of these subjects, in transferring their knowledge of mathematical terminology from mathematics to physics. (SA)

Describes a study unit on the Titius-Bode Law of planetary distances designed to be used in undergraduate astronomy courses. The format of the guide is based on a Piagetian learning cycle of exploration, conceptualization, and application. (HM)

Describes three accessories developed to be used in conjunction with the rotating platform or turntable. Three demonstrations using these accessories are included. These demonstrations are: (a) conservation of angular momentum; (b) gravity-defying goblets; and (c) direct measurement of centripetal force. (HM)

Presents two methods for measuring the index of refraction of glass or lucite. These two methods, used in the freshman laboratory, are based on the fact that a ray of light inside a block will be refracted parallel to the surface. (HM)

Discussed is the pragmatic basis for involving the public in radioactive waste decisions. A model approach to involving the public in preparation of a national radioactive waste disposal plan is outlined. (RE)