Despite the significant role of oral presentation in the academic context, many university students evade opportunities for participation due to low self-efficacy. The present study has been conducted to compare oral presentation self-efficacy of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners with undergraduates and postgraduates of Non-EFL majors,…

The University of Montreal's interdisciplinary curriculum policy was studied to (1) determine the range of opportunities given to students to take courses outside their disciplines; (2) assess the students' responsiveness; and (3) measure the ability of departments to attract nonmajor students. Results indicate that over-specialization still…

In light of declining enrollments and decreasing funding in colleges and universities, humanities curricula should be reorganized to overcome negative student attitudes toward humanities courses. Recounts the successful use of collaborative learning experiences in teaching poetry and suggests the development of interdisciplinary career-option…

Describes a college reform effort that includes the development of a college science course for nonscience majors. The main goal of the course is to advocate the interdisciplinary nature of all sciences and to involve the students actively in the discovery process as a way of learning science. (ZWH)

Brooklyn College faculty members in English and chemistry guest teach in each other's core curriculum class, linking scientific and social literacy in traditionally separate courses, creating an arena in which non-science majors can effectively learn science. (MSE)

Describes the changes needed in education to improve the nonmajor portion of undergraduate education using a multidisciplinary approach. Discusses the basic premises of nonmajor education, poses questions about those premises, and offers examples of items THAT are not taught but that undergraduates need. Summarizes educational implications that…

Describes an engineering course for education and other nonscience majors. In this course, students integrate basic principles of applied physical science and engineering to solve authentic design problems. Discusses the nature of the interactive and problem-based instructional format and its effects on developing students' scientific inquiry…

Student interest was stimulated and critical thinking skills developed through an "Issues in Social Biology" course which include several topics in genetics. Judicious selection of topics, course format, and ordering of subjects are discussed, along with suggestions for course improvement development. (DH)

A project to develop an interdisciplinary course (ARSC 10/11) for teaching science to college students not majoring in science is described. Concept modules were developed for a two-semester format consisting of three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Important science themes were identified to promote an understanding of…

Discusses need for and nature of science courses for the nonspecialist, outlining the content of an integrated four-year program devoted to sciences (first two years), technology (third year) and science/technology/human problems (fourth year). Includes recommendations for implementing such a program. (Author/JN)

There are several ways in which the computer science department at the small liberal arts college can contribute to the richness of the institution's undergraduate curriculum. In addition to providing training for students interested in computer-related careers, the department, by offering courses for non-majors in the field, can broaden the…

Described is an interdisciplinary science course for non-science majors taught by faculty from five different departments. Discussed is the make-up of the course, its relative strengths and weaknesses, and possibilities for further adaptation. Topics covered include the nature of science, health care, the aging process, and environmental issues.…

Eight general areas were addressed in this conference on Japanese/United States chemical education, including: introductory courses; adequacy of texts, manuals, laboratory workbooks for non-majors; laboratory role in non-major courses; adaptation of such techniques as computers, programmed instruction and videotapes; evaluation and testing…

The earth sciences is an evolving set of disciplines encompassing more than 30 specialties; however, earth scientists continue to be trained within the traditional disciplinary structure. Earth science education should focus not only on student acquisition and retention of factual knowledge, but also on the development of higher-order skills…