Microcomputer Data Acquisition, Manipulation, and Modeling in Physiology Laboratories

越来越多的科学实验室依靠微型计算机进行数据采集和操作，并作为与其他计算机交互的终端。经过适当训练的学生应该熟悉这些计算机的使用，它们与实验室仪器的接口方式，以及与更传统的数据采集方式相比，它们的优点和局限性。他们还应该熟悉对于相对简单的现象，可以使用微型计算机来构建模拟和模型的技术。通过购买微型计算机和适当的配件，圣十字学院生理学专业的学生将完全熟悉使用微型计算机直接从普通实验室仪器收集和分析数据以及将计算机用作数字示波器所需的技术。此外，模拟和模型将包括作为辅助大多数实验室。除了提高学生可视化生物过程的能力外，这些模型还将用于开发可测试的预测，即如果生物过程主要是潜在的数学、物理和化学定律的结果，那么生物过程应该如何发生。通过这个项目，学生将有机会对现代实验室中计算机的力量有一个全面的认识。除了在生理学实验室的主要应用外，这些计算机还将用于普通生态学和遗传学实验室的建模。

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.