The project is creating an introductory laboratory environment in which the student is allowed to focus attention as completely as possible on physics principles. This is being accomplished by eliminating distractions of poorly functioning equipment, outmoded data collection techniques, and mathematical tedium. Modern, up-to-date computers, electronic data collection via transducers, and software for data analysis are being used in the introductory physics laboratory. The new environment allows students to identify more easily the underlying physical principles and explore their consequences more efficiently and effectively than previously possible. Many of the experiments emphasize the relevance of physics to everyday life. These improvements are improving student interest in physics as a possible career or as a component of their education.A secondary goal is the enhancement of the technological awareness of the introductory students. It is desired that students will effectively use modern techniques in more advanced laboratory settings, whether physics or other areas. By integrating the data collection process with video- assisted tutorial presentations and analysis and display of results, the students are using the power of this more advanced equipment without treating it as a "black box". It is believed that the result of this project will be physics students with a better grasp of physical principles, of the technology necessary to solve them, and will appreciate the role physics plays in their every day lives.
