The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign School of Chemical Sciences undertook a comprehensive review of management practices in three phases: (1) internal business office procedural review; (2) user opinion survey; and (3) external assessment by campus business and personnel administration. The substantial year-long effort was justified by…

Discussed is misinformation people have on the subject of radiation. The importance of comparing artificial source levels of radiation to natural levels is emphasized. Measurements of radioactivity, its consequences, and comparisons between the risks induced by radiation in the environment and from artificial sources are included. (KR)

Described is a simple demonstration that relates the techniques of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used in medicine and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Included are materials, procedures, and probable results. (KR)

Described is a demonstration that provides an introduction to nonequilibrium reaction-diffusion systems and the coupling of hydrodynamics to chemical reactions. Experiments that demonstrate autocatalytic behavior that are effected by gravity and convection are included. (KR)

Presents historical background and modern explanations for the popular demonstration of showing conductivity of solutions through the insertion of a light-bulb conductivity tester into deionized water and water with salt in it. (PR)

Describes how one teacher and 46 general chemistry students used portfolios as part of the evaluative process. Argues that any worthwhile assessment must address questions about the inevitable impact of testing on students and their learning. (PR)

Describes a demonstration using a variety of clear solutions in which the instructor asks students whether the solutions appear homogeneous or inadequately mixed. The solutions are then induced to fluoresce with ultraviolet light to provide visible evidence of homogeneity or nonhomogeneity. (PR)

Describes the history, chemistry, and uses of sulfuric acid. Presents demonstrations with this the cheapest bulk acid that is available in every country of the world. (PR)

Secondary analysis of data collected from random samples of Australian (n=1,177) and American (n=537) high school chemistry students involved in the Second International Science Study was compared. Of eight chemistry content areas, Australian students were superior to American students in all areas except theoretical and organic chemistry.…

Describes a yearlong project that involves biology students in monitoring water quality. Includes details of the awareness phase, action phase, and presentation phase. Discusses student reaction to the project. (DDR)

Investigates Grade 12 students' understandings of the nature of chemical bonds and the energetics elicited across five familiar chemical reactions following a course of instruction. Discusses the many ways in which students can misconstruct concepts and principles. Contains 63 references. (DDR)

Recounts news stories published in the United States in 1989 that reported possible cancer risks from eating apples treated with a growth regulation chemical. Discusses how the initial alarmist stories launched a vigorous media debate over pesticide risks. Contains 27 references. (DDR)

Discusses whether to provide library instruction for undergraduate chemistry majors as a separate class or integrated into courses, particularly for those who receive a degree certified by the American Chemical Society. The authors suggest that a librarian coordinate course-integrated instruction throughout the undergraduate curriculum. (LRW)

Outlines and defends claims about the metaphysical nature of the theory of Democritus; the modified theories of Gassendi, Boyle, and Newton; and the chemical atomic theory of John Dalton. (DDR)

Describes the use of a quiz that asks elementary but probing questions about chemistry and delivers the message to students that they have much to gain from chemical education. Arises out of concern over lack of student motivation in chemistry. (DDR)