Responds to critiques of the National Commission for Social Studies in the Schools' curriculum report, "Charting A Course: Social Studies for the 21st Century" (Social Education, Nov-Dec, 1990). Contends that the guideline provides for citizenship education, disciplined knowledge, and reflective education. Argues that the debate…

An astrophysics course based on the constructivist approach to science teaching is described. The study of galactic structure is given as an example. Direct experiences and observations, representative-symbolic language, organized knowledge, and formal strategies are emphasized. (KR)

Presents recommendations from the Ohio Council for the Social Studies for high school graduation requirements in social studies education and discusses the rationale behind proposed changes. Assesses the impact of the Council's recommendations, and defines potential cost factors involved in the recommendations. (RW)

The problem of devising a course in business communications for students of English as a Second or Foreign Language is addressed. A way to approach course design in general is described, using creative problem solving and decision making and a partial linguistic analysis of business writing. (one reference) (LB)

Describes the author's experiences in incorporating the critique of heterosexism and heterosexual privilege into an undergraduate course in teacher education at a Canadian university, exploring how an approach intended to counter inherent heterosexism in school curricula interacted with the social relations of the classroom and attitudes of the…

Contends that a college-level capstone course in sociology should synthesize prior knowledge and foster continuing affilation with the discipline. Discusses six pedagogical principles that promote a continuing relationship with sociology. Describes content and instructional procedures used in a senior seminar at Rider College (New Jersey). (CFR)

Compares a college-level senior seminar at Christoper Newport University (VA) to a rite of passage for new members in the field. Describes the structure, content, and assignments used in the course. Lists criteria used to evaluate student papers and presentations. (CFR)

Describes an approach to the instruction of science writing which includes both a collaboration between the librarian and the scientific writing teacher and the incorporation of ongoing and incremental library instruction that is integrated with the writing assignments. (DDR)

Recommends four strategies to reduce problems in developing history curricula: (1) segment U.S. and world history into era-limited courses across the grades; (2) focus on vital episodes, ideas, and personalities; (3) collaborate with colleagues across grades to address common key questions; and (4) stress matters important for civic and personal…

Examines possible general chemistry topics that would be most relevant and practical for engineering majors. Consults the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), engineering textbooks, texts from other required subjects, and practicing engineers for recommendations. (Contains 24 references.) (WRM)

Argues that there are special problems associated with designing and teaching a course about authors outside of the literary canon. Traces the development of a course on Victorian women writers from initial development difficulties to final thoughts on restructuring the syllabus. Notes works used in the course. (DSK)

Discusses the pedagogy and content of a general education curriculum influenced by postmodern assumptions about society, the academy, and knowledge. Suggests a more flexible curriculum, focusing on the skills needed for adapting to accelerating change as well as for preserving traditions. Asserts that critical thinking and problem-solving skills…

Explores how a dozen high school girls express their relationship to and understanding of prenatal testing and its possible place in their lives and the lives of others in the context of a short unit on prenatal testing in a semester-long genetics course. Contains 57 references. (DDR)

Outlines an industrial chemistry course aimed at bridging the academe-industry gap by identifying two major threads: the way industry functions and the way industrial chemists should act in order to be most effective. Contains 39 references. (DDR)

Reports on a study designed to involve parents in the process of reforming science education through the development of science, technology, and society courses in school science. Explores interests and concerns about science and technology in society. Contains 44 references. (DDR)