Lidar remote sensing, which uses laser pulses to measure three-dimensional structure, has become essential across natural science disciplines. However, undergraduate students typically receive limited, if any, exposure to this technology and rarely have opportunities to experience it. Experiential and multi-modal courses may be ideal for…

This study examines the effect of nature journaling on engagement patterns among non-traditional adult learners enrolled in an elementary science methods course. The research aims to bridge a gap in the existing literature by investigating the effectiveness of nature journaling in enhancing learning experiences for this specific demographic.…

Many science educators have been incorporating the use of case studies into their teaching. An advantage of using minicase studies is that they can be used at any time throughout the semester to reinforce important topics covered without having to sacrifice a large amount of class time. In this article, the authors present a series of 10 mini-case…

To supplement the summer reading of National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) members, the NSTA Committee on Research in Science Education suggested a list of science education research articles that were published in the journals of NSTA's affiliates in 2012. These articles covered a variety of topics that include learning about…

Describes methods for teaching wetland ecology classes based mainly on direct, hands-on field experiences for students. Makes the case that classroom lectures are necessary but there is no substitute for field and laboratory experiences. (Author/MM)

Explains an astronomy course with an alternative teaching method that has students investigate their own understanding of astronomy. Describes the value of journal use and its integration into science courses. Lists major components for the integration of journal writing into the course content and discusses student strategies for journal keeping.…

Provides tips for planning a field trip. Includes the following sections: (1) Defining the field trip; (2) Role of the instructor; (3) Preparing students for the field trip; (4) Allocating time; (5) Transportation; (6) Keeping students involved; (7) Division of labor; (8) Equipment; (9) Behavioral rules; (10) Medical emergencies; and (11) Special…

Describes the philosophical orientation and methodology employed in a laboratory chemistry program at Princeton University. Discusses the program's approach and use of challenging experiments, teaching assistants, and mastery teaching. (ML)

Presents ideas for brief, exciting trips that can be organized on any campus to view lithologic, geomorphic, meteorologic, and biotic phenomena. Enables students to cultivate powers of observation and inquiry. Discusses the following topics: rocks and minerals, weathering, microlandforms, weather and daytime astronomy, biogeography and soils, and…

Describes successes achieved in the use of active video techniques and discusses their potential contributions to science education on a national scale. (PR)

Provides insights for college-level teachers beginning their tasks of directing student research. (PR)

Discusses the implications of the Kellogg Commission's "Report on Curriculum". Presents an historical perspective of the engagement of institutions in curriculum development. Discusses the major changes promoted by the Kellogg Commission and evaluates environmental studies programs. Describes a prototype program by the Institute for Conversation…

Describes a course for nonscience students which aims to teach quantitative modes for investigating natural phenomena by specific oceanographic applications to Long Island Sound. Highlights aspects of the course's lecture series and field study program. Identifies resources needed for the course and discusses problem areas and student evaluation.…

Provides a description of a concentrated four-week term course that provided students with opportunities of association with applied science and engineering professionals. Reviews the program's organizational structure, project requirements, and summarizes students reactions to the course. (ML)

Describes the approach and programming emphasis of the National University of Distance Education (UNED). Specifically explains the university's summer residential workshops that focused on basic physics phenomena that were laboratory oriented. Includes examples of the course requirements and samples of the participants' opinions about the course.…