Re: Computer Interfaces in the Physics Lab

[SSHS KPHOX <kphox@MAIL.CCSD.K12.CO.US>]

PHYS-L@lists.nau.edu writes:
> I am concerned that physics educators are feeling pressure to computerize
> for the sake of computerizing. When I ask my professors why we need the
> computer to do "Ohm's Law", I do not get answers based on physics or
> pedagogy, but rather on apperances. "Other schools are doing it this way",
> or "the students expect to see computers in today's labs. They consider us
> backwards if they are not there."
>
> Now, I think computers have a place in these labs. Computers are
> especially
> useful to collect and analyze big repetitive data sets, and using a spread
> sheet to analyze such data is good experience for students in a wide range
> of fields. But I really DON'T see many other educational advantages. And
> they often violate my KISS philosophy, which I feel is the cornerstone to
> good science.

I have espoused this point of view whenever the issue comes up in my high
school. I encourage you to do the simple ones ( Ohm's Law) in the KISS
mode and use the computer when it is truly the best tool ( timing fast
motions, forces in collisions, time constants for RC circuits etc.)

Just my humble opinion. I still believe kids should not be given
caluclators before their 17th birthdays. The contribute to cranial
atrophy! I also love to stand in the way of freight trains ;-) !!!

Ken Fox
AP/IB Physics Teacher
Smoky Hill High School
Aurora, CO