A survey of 76 agricultural economics departments received 57 replies indicating that 25 departments teach 35 courses in rural economics/development; 10 years ago, 31 departments taught 44 courses. Slow enrollment growth and emphasis shifts were possible causes. More attention is now paid to community economics and less to social issues and…

Three business schools of the 27 responding (57% rate) have formal environmental management programs; 75% of the others have no environmental education courses and did not integrate such content into other courses. Those that did integrate it included such topics as environmental economics, manufacturing, marketing, accounting, auditing, and law.…

Discusses issues surrounding whether classes in newspaper design should include computer instruction. Describes a graduate course in journalism which incorporates computer training. Discusses course structure, the knowledge applied, learning through practice, and grading. (SR)

Describes an advanced desktop publishing course that combines instruction in a few advanced techniques for using software with extensive discussion of such design principles as consistency, proportion, asymmetry, appropriateness, contrast, and color. Describes computer hardware and software, class assignments, problems, and the rationale for such…

Although textbooks summarize large quantities of data and have some advantages, they may discourage conceptual thinking, critical analysis, and evaluation. Comprehendability and its elements (coherence, sequence, match, transition, and self-monitoring) should be major criteria for textbook adoption. (SK)

A survey of associate degree and baccalaureate nursing programs in 15 southern states (n=211) determined the current status of gerontological nursing programs. Findings indicate that, although there are areas of improvement, the status of gerontological nursing education and practice in the undergraduate curriculum is not equal to that of other…

Because law teachers model lawyering, they need to both expand their own sense of professional responsibility and challenge students' feeling that one course takes care of ethical concerns. A course in professional responsibility is more than just another course about rules. Ethical issues must be integrated into traditional substantive courses.…

Describes a university consumer affairs course using management tools to improve problem-solving skills. The Interaction Method teaches specific material and enables learning through participation. (SK)

A study of 493 Executive Masters of Business Administration (MBA) alumni were asked about desired curriculum topics. Replies from 245 suggested coverage of less traditional areas such as information technology, international business, and social/ethical issues as well as continued coverage of traditional management skills, development of business…

Discusses what high school students with an interest in engineering should know before pursuing a degree in engineering. Also provides implications for high school science teachers. (ZWH)

Discusses the education of future theater teachers. Describes teacher models, course content, improvisation, and the context of theater departments. (PRA)

Suggests that business communication instructors cannot and must not avoid teaching students the importance of computers. Urges teachers to press their institutions to make available the computing facilities needed. (RS)

Suggests that business communication teachers not yield to the temptation to teach software in business communication courses. Suggests that, in such courses, the primary focus is on communication strategies and that teaching software packages eats up valuable time. (RS)

Argues that business communication teachers must keep abreast of technological advances and inform students of software packages that enhance effective communication. Suggests that the depth in which software is covered must be guided by overall course objectives and computer availability. (RS)

Surveys business communication instructors to gain more information about selected trends in business communication. Presents data on the following: in what administrative unit the courses are taught; what course titles are used; how many class periods are allocated to international topics; and how many international topics assignments are given.…