EvoluZion is a forward-in-time genetic simulator developed in Java and designed to perform real time simulations on the evolutionary history of virtual organisms. These model organisms harbour a set of 13 genes that codify an equal number of phenotypic features. These genes change randomly during replication, and mutant genes can have null,…

The large number of experimentally determined molecular structures has led to the development of a new semiotic system in the life sciences, with increasing use of accurate molecular representations. To determine how this change impacts students' learning, we incorporated image tests into our introductory cell biology course. Groups of students…

Experiences of small group tutorials in biology courses with the leader acting as participant rather than leader are summarized showing that the material used must stimulate discussion and be at the correct level for the group. Other significant factors include skills of the tutor, physical surroundings, and student preparation. (JMF)

This study investigated the appropriateness both to the delivery system and to students of Athabasca University of the audiotutorial method of instruction in an introductory level Biology course, which used selections of audiotutorial materials from "Minicourses in Biology." Evaluation data were gathered by using pre-post test (content)…

This report presents results of Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) during the fall 1972 semester in an introductory Biology class at North Country Community College. Fifty-seven students were enrolled in the course at the beginning of the semester. Course content was divided into 20 units of study. A study guide was written for each unit…

The results of an evaluation of the Provost's Tutorial Fellowship Program (PTFP), the Tutorial Clinics and an interpersonal communications skills workshop are presented along with recommendations for change. The PTFP met its three objectives: Over 90 percent of the tutees who received a letter grade passed the course (objective 1). A formal system…

Results from 291 first-year Australian college students with learning and writing difficulties (language minorities or students from other countries) suggest a direct effect of those difficulties on performance in first-year biology. College language and learning services that address areas in which students recognize their difficulties may…

A series of highly structured, criterion-referenced, small-group discussion tutorials were designed to be used with a large introductory lecture course, Biology of Mankind, that is taught at the University of New South Wales. The design of these tutorials and their role in achieving course objectives are discussed. (JMD)

Describes a new method of evaluating the Supplemental Instruction (SI) model as implemented in a high-risk biology course at an urban multicultural university campus. Examination grades indicated that the average grade of participants in classes that had SI sessions was significantly higher than that of participants in classes where SI sessions…

The Interactive Genetics Tutorial (IGT) project and the Intelligent Tutoring System for the IGT project named MENDEL supplement genetics instruction in biology courses by providing students with experience in designing, conducting, and evaluating genetics experiments. The MENDEL software is designed to: (1) simulate genetics experiments that…

In 1992, a study at the University of Melbourne (Australia) investigated the experiences of 1,108 freshman students in the schools of arts, economics, and commerce. Based on the results, areas for improvement in curriculum design and faculty development were identified. The three faculties were then invited to develop teaching and curriculum…