Finds that few electricity and magnetism experiments make use of computers for data acquisition. Reports on the use of a Vernier system for the measurement of the RC time constant for the charging and discharging of a capacitor. (CCM)

Outlines a way for instructors to teach astronomy and the nature of scientific inquiry. Highlights a discussion with students during coverage of the Earth-Moon system. (CCM)

Describes an activity that centers around advertisements for alternative medical therapy devises based on magnets. (CCM)

Describes a laboratory exercise to supplement or replace more traditional force table experiments, and adds real-world examples to this part of the introductory physics course. (CCM)

Presents a collection of curious findings from one of the first textbooks studied, a 1958 edition of a fairly popular text. Concludes that the book presents a chance for teachers to enrich their physics classes. (CCM)

Describes a Physics Exploration Center, a space where students solve lecture-related homework problems in a hands-on facility. (CCM)

Describes an ammeter that can be built for less than a dollar with commonly available parts to be used in circuits with 3-volt light bulbs. (WRM)

Describes an hour-long activity to illustrate the properties and use of cylindrical concave mirrors. Appropriate for non-science majors or high school students. (WRM)

Argues that the study of refraction of sound waves, although usually neglected, is an excellent ancillary to the normal optical approach in physics courses. Discusses the historical context of interest in the science behind outdoor sound propagation, particularly during the Civil War in the United States. (WRM)

Explains how electronic mailing lists operate, and provides information about the objectives and membership of the four largest physics education-related electronic mail lists. (WRM)

While it is most often the case that an understanding of physics can simplify mathematical calculations, occasionally mathematical precision leads directly to a better physical understanding of a situation. Presents an example of a mechanics problem in which careful mathematical derivation can lead directly to a deeper physical understanding of…

Describes an activity in which students determine where wind chime tubes should be supported and struck to give the best tone, then find the frequency of the tubes. This activity can be used to introduce ideas on significant figures, experimental error, types of variation, peer review of results, seeking empirical relationships with data, and…

Presents a physics lab activity in which students determine if an electrode configuration simulates a section of concentric cylinders or concentric spheres. (WRM)

Describes the setup of a system that allows vibrations in two dimensions to demonstrate polarization states of light and particle spin. (WRM)

Presents a mock interview with John Dewey in which the questions are from the present, and the answers are culled from Dewey's writings from 60-100 years ago. Questions relate primarily to the current state of education in science. (WRM)