The laboratory component of a two semester principles course for biology majors incorporates computer-based data acquisition and analyses systems (Logger Pro and Graphical Analysis for Windows, Vernier Software, Portland, OR 97225-2429). Besides the PC setup, each student workstation consists of a serial box interface with assorted probes/sensors to measure pH, conductivity, carbon dioxide, gas pressure and temperature. The format is investigative rather than the more traditional "cookbook" approach. The laboratories begin with a three-week unit on the scientific method, followed by a molecular-cellular unit covering osmosis/diffusion, enzyme activity, fermentation, aerobic respiration, and photosynthesis. Each laboratory has an instructor-designed exercise that introduces the data handling software and the appropriate probe/sensor. This is followed by one or two weeks of further investigation with student teams designing the experiments to test their hypotheses. Following this unit, student groups conduct a three-week independent research project to Investigate more in depth a topic of interest utilizing any of the probes for data gathering and analysis. The results of this project are still preliminary, but some promising patterns appear to be developing: 1) most students easily adapt to using the PC and data handling software, even if they are unfamiliar with a computer, 2) students learned the scientific method well and, eventually, prefer the experimental approach to cookbook labs, 3) gathering and analyzing data is relatively short, which allows more comprehensive goals to be achieved, and 4) student analytical skills are improved along with a deeper understanding of key principles. Negative aspects of this approach include downsizing the breadth of topics covered in more traditional beginning lab courses. Additionally, preparation is more difficult for both instructor and student; especially for graduate assistants, who must be have experience or special training. This project was supported by NSF-ILI grant DUE-9650139 to JSC.

Key words: computers, investigative general biology laboratory