Learning goal (LG) identification can greatly inform curriculum, teaching, and evaluation practices. The complex laboratory course setting, however, presents unique obstacles in developing appropriate LGs. For example, in addition to the large quantity and variety of content supported in the general chemistry laboratory program, the interests of…

Lab components of undergraduate science courses typically have students complete highly directed cookbook-like laboratory activities. These experiences rarely engage students in a meaningful manner and do not accurately convey what the work of science entails. With funding from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), we have created more…

We tested the effectiveness of hands-on nighttime laboratories that challenged student misconceptions, using a new assessment exam to measure learning in a nonmajor introductory astronomy class at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. We were able to increase learning at the 8.0 sigma level on one of the Moon phase objectives that was addressed in a…

Behavioral objectives with minimum performance levels and illustrations are presented. The objectives are suggested on the basis of two arguments: first, they provide a basis for selection of laboratory content; second, they are stated in currently acceptable form. (DF)

Describes a model for a college biology laboratory that is: (1) individualized, (2) self-instructional, and (3) investigative. (See also SE 515 093.) (LS)

The purpose of the study was to establish a list of acceptable terminal behavioral objectives for the nonmajor general biology laboratory as perceived by each instructor in every institution for higher education in the state of Missouri who is responsible for planning, organizing, operating, and evaluating that course. It was further the purpose…

A curriculum guide, in outline form, for oceanography field laboratories is presented. Designed to complement and expand upon an oceanography lecture course, it provides a list of objectives related to student experiences in three areas: (1) operating oceanographic equipment; (2) gathering, manipulating, and evaluating data; and (3) writing formal…