Describes an action-research project conducted by student teachers in Edinburgh designed to explore ways in which children picture what happens inside an electric circuit. The student teachers also explored their own understanding of electricity. (Author/WRM)

Explains the physics behind some of the apparently puzzling aspects of the motion of a person riding a snake-board (a skateboard with independently pivoted axles). (Author/WRM)

Presents the Conceptual Understanding Program (CUP) as a means of helping first-year university physics students overcome their misconceptions in mechanics. Students work on exercises alone, then in threes, and finally as a class, which has resulted in high levels of participation and satisfaction among students. This strategy can be implemented…

University students' answers to a "Minds on Physics" problem revealed six distinct approaches to the solution. Discusses implications for teaching and assessment. (Author/WRM)

Describes a simple demonstration in which students toss crumpled paper on opposite sides of a classroom and graph the results in order to demonstrate dynamic equilibrium. (WRM)

Examines the issue of learning physics content through real-life contexts. Considers two projects--one from the United Kingdom, the other from Australia--that use a context-based learning approach. (Author/CCM)

Experiments in an accelerating frame are hard to perform. Illustrates how simple computer software allows sufficiently rapid and accurate measurements to be made on an arrangement of weights and pulleys known as Atwood's machine. (Author/CCM)

Describes a course based on the scientific approach to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. Explores the biological and technological aspects of the search and the social implications of possible contact. (Author/CCM)

Suggests activities that could be incorporated into a study and actual viewing of a total solar eclipse, including student involvement in real research projects. Lists related websites. (Author/WRM)

Details the construction and design of two kinds of sundials appropriate for school or home use. (Author/WRM)

Describes a simple model that illustrates concepts about time and its relation to terrestrial longitude. The model also simulates the diurnal motion of the sun and moon and their changing positions against the background stars. (Author/WRM)

Presents simple experiments using the flow of water from bell jars that can provide an easily visualized introduction to exponential decay. (Author)

Explains how cartoons are used to promote public understanding of science. Argues that cartoons have proven popular and can be usefully applied in the classroom where improved motivation is one of the benefits. (Author/DDR)

Lists the benefits of hands-on experiments that are both low-cost and high-tech. Details four examples which include the use of contact lenses and compact disks. (DDR)

Reviews a simple theory that describes the bounce of an air-filled ball and predicts that the contact time should be independent of the speed of impact. Presents experimental results that disagree with the theory and an alternative model that agrees with experimental results. (DDR)