Microcomputer Data Acquisition, Manipulation, and Modeling in Physiology Laboratories

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

An increasing number of scientific laboratories rely on microcomputers for data acquisition and manipulation, and as terminals to interact with other computers. Properly trained students should be familiar with the use of these computers, the means by which they are interfaced with laboratory instruments, and their advantages and limitations as compared to more traditional means of data acquisition. They also should be familiar with the techniques by which, for relatively simple phenomena, microcomputers may be used to construct simulations and models. Through the purchase of microcomputers and the appropriate accessories, physiology students at the College of the Holy Cross will become thoroughly familiar with the techniques required to use a microcomputer to collect and analyze data directly from common laboratory instruments and also to use the computers as digital oscilloscopes. In addition, simulations and models will be included as adjuncts to most labs. Besides improving the students' abilities to visualize biological processes, these models will be used to develop testable predictions as to how biological processes should occur if they are largely the result of underlying mathematical, physical and chemical laws. Through this project students will have opportunity to develop a thorough appreciation for the power of the computer in modern laboratories. In addition to their major application in the Physiology labs, the computers will be used for modeling in General Ecology and Genetics laboratories.