Twenty-first century graduates need to have the aptitude to be critical thinkers and capacity to make balanced judgements. The undergraduate dissertation (capstone/independent research project) is normally undertaken at the end of the degree programme enabling students to demonstrate their ability to apply, analysis, synthesis and evaluate their…

Advancements in technology have led to significant changes in the workforce and created a demand for expertise in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). In response, curricula have evolved to emphasize essential skills such as critical thinking and communication to prepare students for STEM-based careers. To this end,…

Research has been implemented related to the analysis of the students' science process skills through project-based learning in a COVID-19 pandemic era. The prohibition of face-to-face lectures causes hindered experimental activities to be conducted on campus. This condition encourages project-based learning to carry out extraction experiments…

An independent study course in which students investigate industrially-related topics is described. The outline of the course, from selection of the research topic, progress reports, to evaluation of the students' work is provided. Merits of this experience have been evident for students in later attempts to locate employment. An appendix lists…

Discusses teaching of two project experiments to nonscience students who were asked to measure the acceleration of a system any way they could and investigate any phenomena that they thought might follow a Poisson distribution. Indicates that physics learning performed outside the physics building is the experiment highlight. (CC)

Reports on a cross-section of high school seniors who were among the 40 students named as finalists in the fiftieth annual science talent search. Presents highlights from interviews with these exceptional teenagers being recognized for their independent research efforts in science, engineering, and mathematics. (JJK)

This paper advocates the use of independent research projects as a practical means of individualizing science instruction within the framework of a traditional school program. The science program at Model Laboratory School, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky, is discussed as an example of independent study being an integral part of…

Describes a high school physics course taught by independent study during one-half of the class time. Discusses the use of student projects, minicourses, term papers, and do-it-yourself field trips. (MLH)

As his geology students' specialized knowledge of the Mesozoic era increased, a high school teacher realized he needed a way to showcase their work. The Mesozoic Resource Center's biggest hit was a walk-through diorama showing how life might have been during each of three Mesozoic periods. Highlights included two gigantic student-built dinosaur…

Suggests individual student projects for extra-credit work to enhance student individuality. Provides a sample information sheet for independent projects (with suggested activities), a listing of project requirements, and a project evaluation checklist. (DS)

Presented is a student learning guide for high school students working independently on a self-paced research project in an environmental field. Students are introduced to environmental awareness and the environmental crisis, and are presented with a variety of techniques helpful in conducting a research project. Included are: choosing a problem,…

Discusses some of the problems associated with requiring a highly structured set of laboratory exercises in undergraduate biochemistry courses. Describes a program where students perform short-term independent projects after completing experiments which introduce basic concepts and techniques. Provides lists of the experiments and some typical…

A science teacher at a Portland (Oregon) parochial school has made the school a major contender at local, state, and national science fairs. He instills confidence in his students through high expectations. Science projects are 25 percent of a student's grade, and through public presentation of findings, they learn public speaking skills and…

The results of a colloquium of specialists in postsecondary pedagogy from 12 countries concerning the extent, importance, and encouragement of student independent scientific research are reported. Emphases include the need for training in research methodology, the importance of the student-faculty relationship, and interest in strategies for…

The intent of this book is to provide the framework for educational experiences designed to develop creativity, self-reliance, and a sense of independence in the students' approach to learning. It is comprised of eight units on a variety of themes. Each unit stresses the use of thinking processes, such as creativity and problem solving. Emphasis…