The author's quasi-experimental study compares undergraduate students' academic performance and experiences as a function of using electronic (n = 117) versus traditional (n = 116) textbooks in a developmental psychology course. Student exam scores did not differ significantly as a function of textbook format. Students who used the traditional…

A questionnaire was developed to determine the content, mode of instruction, approach, and textbook selection of instructors of introductory economics courses. The survey was distributed in 1974 to 143 economics instructors at two- and four-year colleges in Illinois. Results are presented here, and recommendations are made. (Author/NHM)

A study assessed the status of the undergraduate general communication theory course at small and large colleges. Questionnaires were mailed to 261 programs in the United States listing a communication theory course in their catalogues. A total of 62 questionnaires were returned, for a response rate of 24%. Results indicated: (1) a clear…

A close look at college reading lists and publishers' best sellers reveals that classics remain an essential part of the English curriculum at most schools. The popularity of the Bible and Cliffs Notes of classics confirms the interest in classic works. (SLD)

Discusses establishing a course in intercultural communication. Discusses determining course goals; selecting textbooks and readings; selecting guest speakers; selecting films and videotapes; involving students in the learning process; and evaluating student achievement. (RS)

Reviews 21 one-semester economics textbooks using Kenneth E. Boulding's ideas for introductory textbooks. Lists 240 concepts and topic areas in macroeconomics, microeconomics, public policy, and international economics that may be covered in a textbook. (NL)

Most speech communication curricula have room for only three organizational courses: (1) business and professional speech communication (B and P), usually offered to freshmen and sophomores; (2) an introduction to organizational communication, presented to sophomores and upper-class students; and (3) a seminar in organizational communication, for…

Discusses the five main tasks of delivering a regional geography course that engages the students in active study of foreign language texts: (1) planning the syllabus and scheduling; (2) selection of texts; (3) study guides and class activities; (4) student recruitment; and (5) course evaluation. (CMK)

The first roadblock encountered in an effort to develop an interdisciplinary communications skills course at the university level was the discovery that no suitable textbooks exist for such a course. First, texts widely used for basic speech courses do not attempt to incorporate written and spoken communication, much less computer skills. Second,…

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)

Presents comments from a symposium at which scientists and science educators agreed that science education should focus more on problem solving and less on mastery of content. Also suggests ways to select textbooks that support a problem-solving approach. (DC)

Study showed that undergraduate psychology teachers are actively involved in fashioning the discipline by selecting that which is taught. Teacher and institutional characteristics play an important part in determining the selection factors which affect what constitutes conceptual tradition in the field. (RM)

Summarizes the findings used in developing a directory of interpretive curricula in colleges and universities in the United States and Canada. Reports on the numbers of schools offering courses, majors, specializations, and degrees in interpretation, as well as the texts, and the areas of content that are emphasized in the curricula. (TW)

Questions content of many introductory courses in political science, pointing out most courses focus on the U.S. political system, not the discipline and its basic theoretical and conceptual elements. Argues for a generalist approach that gives students a better understanding of political systems and the global world. Includes authors, choices,…

This paper is based on an analysis of 83 syllabuses and/or catalog descriptions of courses on the politics of education, educational policymaking, and policy analysis received from members of the Politics of Education Association in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. This material provided information on what topics were…