Tools for Scientific Thinking: Microcomputer-Based Laboratories for the Naive Science Learner.

A promising new development in science education is the use of microcomputer-based laboratory tools that allow for student-directed data acquisition, display, and analysis. Microcomputer-based laboratories (MBL) make use of inexpensive microcomputer-connected probes to measure such physical quantities as temperature, position, and various physiological indicators. This paper discusses the use of a MBL motion probe in a sixth-grade classroom and in two college physics courses at Tufts Univerity which are primarily designed for humanists. The probe (developed from a sonic transducer used in Polaroid cameras) was used in both settings to teach relationships among position, velocity, and acceleration of objects as a function of time by use of immediate (real-time) graphical representations shown on a computer screen. In both cases the motion of the students' own bodies was initially used to teach the concepts involved. Results of observations, written work, and examinations show substantial student understanding of motion and graphing. Preliminary observations indicate that the linking of concrete measurement of an actual physical system with the simultaneous production of the symbolic representation may be an effective way for students to learn to correctly interpret and produce graphs. (Author/JN) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. *********************************************************************** TERC Technical Report 85-6 November, 1985 BEST COPY AVNILIAbLL TOOLS FOR SCIENTIFIC THINKING: MICROCOMPUT2R-BASED LABORATORIES FOR THE NAIVE SCIENCE LEARNER Ronald K. Thornton, Ph.D. Director of Research and Development Center for Science and Mathematics Teaching Tufts University Medford, Massachusetts (617) 628-5000, Ext. 2397 and Technical Education Research Centers (TERC) Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138 (617) 547-0430 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER IERIC) This document hes been reproduced as received from the person or organisation originating it. U Minor changes have been made to Improve reproduction quality. Points of view or opinion*, stated in this docu mint do not ntcessanly represent official NIE position or policy. "PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY ?maid K. -Th,orrsitin TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)." Copyright 1985 Technical Education Research Centers, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this report may be reproduced without the specific written permission of TERC. This report was produced as part of NSF grant DPE-8319155. However, any opinions, findings, or recommendations expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Foundation.