Microcomputer-Based Interactive Laboratory For Introductory Physics

基于使用微型计算机的一系列实验室实验正在为一年的物理导论课程开发。这些实验使用的是一台麦金塔微型计算机，在研究生助教的指导下进行两小时的传统教学。计算机可以实时获取数据，通过简化数据收集，可以在两个小时的实验室时间内研究不同实验情况下的现象。此外，计算机通过使用电子表格和图形包简化了数据分析。带有图形和动画的交互式教程阐述了概念，并展示了它们与现实生活体验的关系。实验利用Authorware软件为学生进行实验室实验提供了一个交互式实验。Authorware是一个软件开发工具，用于创建教学演示，包括教程和模拟。弗吉尼亚理工大学已经获得了该软件的站点许可，允许教师和学生免费使用该软件。这些实验结合了塔夫茨大学为“科学思维工具”项目开发的材料，以及迪金森学院“车间物理”的概念。每年有500多名学生入学，通过前后测试，可以获得很好的统计数据来衡量学生表现的变化。

9350772 Jenkins A series of laboratory experiments, based on the use of a microcomputer, is being developed for a one-year, introductory physics course. The experiments are using a Macintosh microcomputer in a traditional two-hour period supervised by graduate teaching assistants. The computer allows real-time acquisition of data and, by simplifying data collection, it permits the study of phenomena with different experimental situations in the two-hour lab period. In addition, the computer simplifies data analysis through the use of spread sheets and graphics packages. Interactive tutorials with graphics and animations illustrate concepts and show their relationship to real life experiences. The experiments make use of the Authorware software to provide an interactive experiment for students performing the laboratory experiments. Authorware is a software developmental tool for creating instructional presentations including tutorials and simulations. Virginia Tech has acquired a site license for this software allowing free access to the software by both faculty and students. The experiments incorporate materials developed for the program Tools for Scientific Thinking from Tufts University as well as concepts from Workshop Physics from Dickinson College. With an annual enrollment of over 500 students, good statistics are being obtained of measurements of changes in performance by pre- and post- testing.