9452343 Morgan Funds are requested to develop a unique laboratory facility in support of undergraduate research into a range of topics related to animal physiology. In contrast to traditional physiology laboratories where students perform a series of prescribed exercises, this facility will support "project-laboratories" in which small groups of students initiate, carry out, and present the results of a research project of their own design. I propose to make computers an integral part of our physiology teaching laboratories at all stages of data acquisition and analysis, not just when analyzing data obtained using traditional and now largely outdated physiological instruments (e.g., oscilloscopes). Specifically, I wish to develop a computerized facility that will enable students to develop research skills in physiology in three key areas. (1) The first is a computerized facility for addressing questions relevant to energy metabolism and respiratory gas exchange. Equipment requested includes O2 and CO2 analyzers, an oxygen meter and electrode, and computer data collecting and analysis software and hardware. (2) The second is a computerized facility for addressing questions relevant to animal motion (locomotion and feeding behavior). Equipment requested includes a stereozoom microscope, a video camera and monitor, a video recorder, and computer. (3) The third is a computerized facility for addressing physiological questions relevant to nepve and muscle function. Equipment requested includes physiological transducers, a preamplifier, and computer data collecting and analysis software and hardware. Development of technologically sophisticated laboratory facilities such the ones proposed above is integral to departmental efforts to enhance the quality of undergraduate education at East Carolina University.
