Background: Active learning used in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses has been shown to improve student outcomes. Nevertheless, traditional lecture-orientated approaches endure in these courses. The implementation of teaching practices is a result of many interrelated factors including disciplinary norms, classroom…

Introductory physics for life sciences (IPLS) courses have emerged as a type of physics course within the introductory courses sequence. The interdisciplinary aspects of these courses as well as the diverse student populations that they serve create significant challenges for instructors who choose to design and deliver them. The Living Physics…

As biochemists, one of our most captivating teaching tools is the use of molecular visualization. It is a compelling medium that can be used to communicate structural information much more effectively with interactive animations than with static figures. We have conducted a survey to begin a systematic evaluation of the current classroom usage of…

Considers ways in which teachers can increase student motivation when using the lecture method of instruction. Outlines some of the more serious demotivators associated with this instructional method, and discusses how principles of industrial psychology can be used to increase student motivation and achievement. (JR)

Examination of college teacher lecture styles, using the Batchelder-Keane variation of the Flanders Interaction Analysis System, found significant differences in lecture characteristics of college teachers, primarily among the subject fields of science, social sciences, and humanities. (MJB)