This article describes the use and advantages of the MATLAB-based program ReshmoBeam, developed to perform beam analysis, as it is done in statics courses of engineering curricula. An important goal of the article is to facilitate the dissemination of the program among faculty teaching these courses. The program is offered free to interested…

The teaching of histology has changed dramatically with virtual microscopy. Fewer students of histology spend significant time viewing slides on a microscope and instead study images available in digital slide sets, generally accessible via the internet. However, students must still be able to correctly identify the defining characteristics of…

In an effort to better prepare undergraduate students to read and critically evaluate scientific literature, a journal club experience was introduced into a university's bachelor of science curriculum. As a result of this experience, students have been found to be more thoughtful, poised, and articulate presenters, a fact that they, the students,…

A tablet PC is a versatile computer that combines the computing power of a notebook with the pen functionality of a PDA (Cox and Rogers 2005b). The authors adopted tablet PC technology in order to improve the process and product of the lecture format in their chemistry, engineering, and physics courses. In this high-tech model, a single tablet PC…

For distance-education students, the requirement for a laboratory course can present a significant hurdle to completing degree requirements. To better serve these nontraditional students, the authors developed a distance version of the laboratory course to provide a hands-on experience similar to that of on-campus students. In order to make the…

Describes an online adaptation of a peer review and discussion project in which students collaborate across institutional boundaries to imitate a professional discourse community. Discusses key elements of the project, including the impetus behind creating such a module, its organization, and activities carried out by the students. (SAH)

Instructors can use interactive Java applets to present science in a concrete and meaningful manner to nonscience majors. This article shows how applets can take the place of laboratory work and gives examples and benefits of using applets. (Contains 1 table and 3 figures.)

Describes a study on the performance of Internet notes and PowerPoint lecture slides in a physical geology course and compares it with the traditional lecturing method. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Describes a technological approach to teaching the relationships between biological form and function. Computer-assisted image analysis was integrated into a microanatomy course. Students spend less time memorizing and more time observing, measuring, and interpreting, building technical and analytical skills. Appendices list hardware and software…

Described are three levels of information management with databases. Levels and methods of integration, computer supply and learning approach, dynamic resources, and self-tailored learning approaches are discussed. Examples of database records are provided. (CW)

Describes distance education in an elementary science methods course using newsgroups and electronic mail discussion groups via computer. Compares the newsgroup to the discussion group and points out the importance of interaction in cooperative learning. (YDS)

Describes the Computers in Science course which integrates computer-related techniques into the science disciplines of chemistry, physics, biology, and Earth science. Uses a team teaching approach and teaches students how to solve chemistry problems with spreadsheets, identify minerals with X-rays, and chemical and force analysis. (Contains 14…

Reports on a comparison of computer instruction at Japanese and American universities and colleges. Discusses hardware, education of students, computer graphics, and cooperative efforts. States that computer hardware in Japan is of high quality, abundant, and inexpensively accessed, and in America there is a stronger, direct instructional…

Reviewed is the use of computer-assisted instruction in college science laboratories. Examples of computer interfacing are discussed. (CW)

Explains a method for keeping track of chemicals, supplies, and equipment by using a computer. Describes stockroom personnel, department needs, the physical plant, restocking procedures, file setup, and effectiveness of the program. Examples of sample inventory forms are included. (RT)