The goal of this project is to improve student understanding of physics concepts, attract interest, and improve retention through the use of computer technology. Having tested the concept (as a pilot project) taken from Ron Thornton and Priscilla Laws during the past 2 years, this investigator and cal-based Physics 213 students have demonstrated the advantages of the microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) method. Students can be actively involved in lab activities and can experiment with different data. The success of the pilot project causes this investigator to expand MBL into physics and physical science courses. This enhanced lab provides students with effective learning experiences to support lecture theory. In addition to increasing learning, exposure to new lab instrumentation and technology makes the students more competitive with peers upon transfer to a senior college or entrance into the workforce. Partial implementation of the Conceptual Exercises/Overview Case Study (CE/OCS) method has begun and is being expanded into others. The project provides support for six workstations equipped with Mac Quadra 630 computers, appropriate software, and supplementary lab equipment to implement redesigned and newly developed lab experiments. Up to 24 students per course in 6 different courses can benefit and be better prepared for the technologies of the twenty-first century.
