9351449 Anderson The laboratory sequence of the introductory physics courses required of all science majors, "Fundamentals of Physics I and II", have been redesigned and upgraded through the addition of computer-assisted laboratories (CAL) that focus on multiple concept experiments (MCE), and that employ "state-of-the art" data acquisition techniques. Although the multi-concept approach normally entails complicated set-ups and complex data collection, the use of data acquisition instrumentation simplifies the procedural aspects of such experiments. The MCE series being implemented are based on magnetoelastic phenomena; simple harmonic motion and resonance; elastic properties, speed of sound, and modulus; damping, Q and efficiency; magnetic fields in induction; and ferromagnetism, permeability, and magnetostriction. CAL software is being utilized that is portable between different computer platforms and that can be easily programmed to do sophisticated control and analysis of any type of experiment. The selected software - Lab View II - employs real and virtual instruments. The students simply use a window interface to select the experiment. After reviewing the procedure and performing an optional tutorial and simulation, the students set-up the experiment using both real and virtual instruments. Computer-assisted instructional modules (not part of this grant) enable students to engage in self-paced study and review of course content, including the laboratory experience. ***
