We apply a "tutorial design process", which has proven to be successful for a number of physics topics, to design curricular materials or "tutorials" aimed at improving student understanding of important concepts in a university-level introductory materials science and engineering course. The process involves the identification…

In large lecture courses, it can be challenging for instructors to address student misconceptions, supplement background knowledge, and identify ways to motivate the various interests of all students during the allotted class time. Instructors can harness instructional technology such as screencasts, recordings that capture audio narration along…

While this book is focused primarily on the tutorials held in the British universities, it offers many insights that can improve the teaching in the discussion sections so common in our large universities. Introductions to analyses of group processes of technical language, and of questions are given. Lesson plans for skill building sessions are…

In this program, engineering students who have proven to be excellent writers are trained to give individual help to other students. (BB)

Discusses the teaching of an experimental, individualized, lectureless course in chemistry with emphasis on programed instruction, audiovisual presentation, computerized examinations, and tutorial methods. Concludes that the program may prove superior in teaching of certain elementary chemical concepts to underprepared students. (CC)

Investigates the effects of web-based instructional materials on students' understanding of chemical concepts. Uses interviews with students, concept mapping, and a free-response survey for the study. (YDS)

Summarizes some elements which contribute to the quality of a tutorial system in engineering education. Uses a case study of the civil engineering program at the University of Waterloo (Great Britain) to examine the relationships between various aspects of this type of program. (TW)

This paper reports on the results of substituting one-hour active-engagement tutorials using microcomputer based laboratory (MBL) equipment for traditional problem-solving recitations in introductory calculus-based mechanics classes for engineering students at the University of Maryland. The results of two specific tutorials--one on the concept of…

Describes the audiotutorial program in earth science at St. Petersburg Junior College's Clearwater Campus started ten years ago. Although initial expenses were considered high, they are now equivalent to those of traditional delivery systems, and students come away with better grades and more positive attitudes. (Author/JN)

In this study, students' achievement using three individualized audiotutorial (IAT) biology learning units was investigated. The method of instruction, gender, academic achievement in mathematics and biology, and students' IQ levels were compared. (KR)

Explores and identifies scaffolding (adults helping children learn inaccessible material) strategies in three specific primary schooling contexts: design and technology, mathematics, and science. Delineates the differences among scaffolding, everyday knowledge, and specialist knowledge. (MJP)

Techniques designed to improve basic competencies of minority students attending selected, historically black colleges are reviewed. The efforts to improve instruction in targeted subject areas have been implemented with the assistance of the Southern Regional Education Board. Attention is directed to: modification of curricula and instructional…