Microcomputer-Controlled Instrumentation for an Undergraduate Physiology Laboratory

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Although the implementation of computer use in undergraduate education had successfully permeated every facet of this department's curriculum, the microcomputer application to data acquisition and analysis had not yet been initiated systematically. Outdated physiological instruments had started to become a hindrance to the full development of the instructional program. With equipment proved through this project, the faculty is revising and upgrading the student work stations with microcomputer-interfaced instrumentation. Modernization of the Introductory Physiology lab benefits many related upper-level courses. Students are able to engage in hands-on experimentation with improved quality and quantity. They also gain easier access to computer simulations and computer-aided lessons. Furthermore, they have a chance to learn and master state-of-the-art techniques in data acquisition and analysis. Finally, the new instrumentation permits new experiments and research projects to be developed for independent research and senior honors work, an important part of the institution's ongoing efforts to provide its women a strong basic science foundation for graduate studies and subsequent careers in science. The grantee institution is matching the NSF award with an equal sum obtained from non-Federal sources.