Inquiry-driven lab exercises require students to think carefully about a question, carry out an investigation of that question, and critically analyze the results of their investigation. Here, we describe the implementation and assessment of an inquiry-based laboratory exercise in which students obtain and analyze novel data that contribute to our…

To remedy certain deficiencies, an instrument analysis course was reorganized into six one-unit modules: optical spectroscopy, magnetic resonance, separations, electrochemistry, radiochemistry, and computers and interfacing. Selected aspects of the course are discussed. (SK)

Describes a modular degree course in sciences. States the modules taken in physics in each of the three years program. (GA)

Describes a first-year zoology course at University College Cardiff based on a self-instructional system using printed texts, audiovisual programs, and integrated practical work. (Author/BB)

Briefly describes a module on the origin of life formulated for inclusion in introductory biology, geology, and astronomy courses. The authors are preparing a concise monograph on the topic to complement the three-week module. (Author/SK)

Describes the development and operation of a college biophysics course as well as the educational materials used, the structure of the modules and the performance of the students. Also discusses the economics of such a flexible system of instruction. (GA)

A two-semester basic chemistry course for nonchemistry engineering majors is described. First semester provides introductory chemistry for freshmen while second semester is "customer-oriented," based on a departmental choice of three out of six independent modules. For example, aeronautical engineering "customers" would select…

Describes a competency-based, modular laboratory course emphasizing the synthesis and characterization of polymers and directed toward senior undergraduate and/or first-year graduate students in science and engineering. One module, free-radical polymerization kinetics by dilatometry, is included as a sample. (CS)

With less time to spend with individual students, teachers of large classes may need course materials that augment texts and lectures. The author discusses what criteria such materials must meet and gives examples from a course in statics. (Author/DS)

Three categories of information are presented in this issue of "Science for Society: Education Review," published by the Commission on Science Education of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. First, as examples of promising innovations in science teaching, there are brief reviews of a secondary school course, Science for…

Describes the "Chemistry from Issues" project at Chelsea College. Provides the background information, rationale, and overall structure of a proposed course about the importance of chemistry to common culture. Outlines one module about the British steel industry that has been taught at King's College. (TW)

Discusses educational efforts in the fields of Computer Assisted Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Describes two educational training initiatives underway in the United Kingdom, one of which is a resource materials package for teachers of CAD/CAM at the undergraduate level, and the other a training course for managers of CAD/CAM systems. (TW)