The historic underrepresentation of women, certain racial and ethnic minorities, and members of other marginalized groups in careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) reflects a disproportionate exit of individuals from these academic and career paths due to both environmental and personal factors. To transition…

Guidelines for planning a study abroad course in chemistry start with defining the course objectives and outcomes. These, in turn, guide the choice of course content and format, location, length of travel, activities, and assessment. Budgetary issues include transportation, lodging, admission fees, activities, docents and guides (including audio…

Undergraduate research experiences have been shown to enhance the educational experience and retention of college students, especially those from underrepresented populations. However, many challenges still exist relative to building community among students navigating large institutions. We developed a novel course called "Entering…

Discussed is the need for examining the reasons for teaching optics to help to determine how optics should be taught. (SL)

An introductory human anatomy course designed to provide the basic understanding of human structure necessary for further study in allied health and related fields is described. First, a general course description provides an overview; discusses the courses' place within the science curriculum, noting that it does not meet the general education…

THE INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES OF A FRESHMAN COURSE IN GENERAL BIOLOGY ARE ORGANIZED FOR THE STUDENT'S EASE OF REFERENCE. THE COURSE IS OUTLINED, BY DEGREE OF COMPLEXITY, AS FOLLOWS--(1) ORIENTATION AND INTRODUCTION, (2) ORIGIN AND ORGANIZATION OF LIFE, (3) CYTOLOGY, (4) METABOLISM AND BIOCHEMISTRY, (5) PLANT LIFE (VASCULAR AND NON-VASCULAR), (6)…

Secondary science methods courses should help students develop competencies in five areas: knowledge of the curriculum, planning for instruction, teaching strategies, classroom management, and evaluation of pupils' progress. (IAH)

A study was conducted to determine the extent to which science-related instruction occurs as part of instruction in the advanced program of vocational agriculture in Louisiana. Specifically, the study identified instructional objectives in the program that are similar to competencies taught in the state-approved science courses and determined the…

Discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of offering intensive courses instead of elective courses in one-theme biology classes at the secondary-school level. (ND)

Discusses the content and objectives of a course on women's sexuality offered at the City College of Chicago as an alternative to the general education biology course. Examines the value of the course in dispelling misinformation about and ignorance of female physiology. (JP)

Advocates using the first day of physics class to discuss some unique aspects of the discipline and the course. Lists examples of appropriate discussion topics. (WRM)

Describes an engineering course for graduate study in random media. Summarizes random media as bulk properties of ordered and disordered two-phase materials. Gives course outline for one semester. Topics include: disordered systems, microstructure determination, survey of models, connectivity, and effective properties. (MVL)

At Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) in New Jersey, an honors philosophy course was developed which taught mathematics and science concepts independent of computational skill. The course required that students complete a weekly writing assignment designed as a continuous refinement of logical reasoning development. This refinement was…

Teachers and scientists indicated, by questionnaire, that elementary science curricula should emphasize the importance of biology for self-understanding and the development of positive attitudes toward science. Secondary level curricula should emphasize subject matter, history of science, and application of biology in life. (CP)

Announces a "user friendly" chemistry course for grades 10 to 12 for college bound students designed to enhance public understanding of chemistry. Discusses the development, field testing, and structure of the course. Stresses the importance of training teachers in the skills required to teach "Chemistry in the Community." (CW)