This article describes the use of project-based instruction in activities and labs intended to develop higher-order thinking skills with high school students and pre-service teachers through the use of soap making.

Research-like experiences range from relatively "canned" labs that are highly controlled by the instructor (such as those described in Lord and Orkwiszewski 2006) to more individually designed projects (e.g., Switzer and Shriner 2000; Wyatt 2005). This article describes a laboratory approach that allows for many of the benefits of independent or…

Introduces a laboratory science course addressing scientific literacy. Includes three interrelated student projects for the laboratory section of the course. (Contains 27 references.) (YDS)

An organic chemistry laboratory has been designed around independent laboratory projects that are done by groups, thus exposing students not only to a research experience but also to one that is more realistic and like the one they will be in as professional chemistry chemists. Instructional strategies used are described. (JN)

Describes a program in which senior engineering students are given the opportunity to design, make, and test apparatus intended for an upper-level teaching laboratory. Discusses such projects as a vapor compressor test stand with refrigerant mass flow measurement, a double-walled concentric annular heat pipe, and a vacuum filling station. (TW)

Describes the construction of a low-cost (about $70.00) alternative to the commercial fraction collector. Outlines the separate parts of the collector and provides a schematic of electronic circuitry of the instrument. Lists special items required for the development of this project. (TW)

This qualitative study examined the role of discourse (verbal elements of language) and Discourse (nonverbal elements related to the use of language, such as ways of thinking, valuing, and using tools and technologies) in the process of group knowledge construction of mechanical engineering students. Data included interviews, participant…

Describes an elective field study program at Moravian College (Pennsylvania) in which seniors in analytical chemistry obtain first-hand experience at Bethlehem Steel Corporation. Discusses the program's planning phase, some method development projects done by students, experiences received in laboratory operations, and the evaluation of student…

Discusses the use of two different computer applications to teaching college chemistry. Describes the "electric laboratory notebook" (ELN) courseware and its use in an instrumental analysis course. Provides an overview of the use of commercial spreadsheet programs in the chemistry laboratory. (TW)

The U.S. Naval Academy oceanography major is bucking the nationwide trend toward declining enrollments in science majors study tracks. Nontraditional approaches used include interdisciplinary and applied science, significant instructor experience in applying the major outside academia, hands-on laboratories in all classes, and an oceanography…