Presents a method to teach the concept of a mole that demonstrates the logic of empirical science using the concept of equivalent mass. (MDH)

Describes an atom-building activity where students construct three-dimensional models of atoms using a styrofoam ball as the nucleus and pom-poms, gum drops, minimarshmallows, or other small items of two different colors to represent protons and neutrons attached. Rings of various sizes with pom-poms attached represent electron shells and…

The performance of candidates in Northern Ireland "A" level Chemistry in 1989 and 1990 was compared to investigate whether the change from "O" level to the General Certificate of Secondary Education at 16 had any significant influence. The main influence identified was the introduction of the assessment of coursework in 1990.…

Presents an activity that models the work of chemical engineers. Students design, fabricate, and perform mechanical tests on plaster matrix composites and compare the strength to mass ratios of several products. (PR)

Recommends the use of constructivist-based strategies to engage students who are not interested in science using traditional methods. Focuses on the application of these strategies in a laboratory experience exploring gas laws. (DDR)

Explains the use of a constructivist model for engaging students in the curriculum. The student end of the model is characterized by the knowledge, personal experience, degree of motivation, and level of interest that a student brings to a learning situation. (DDR)

Describes how teaching a lesson on the discovery of a crater in the Yucatan Peninsula and the rock strata deep in the ocean can help students explain the demise of dinosaurs. Discusses the impact theory and the core model. (DDR)

Explains the process of student and teacher collaboration on a project to develop a faster electrolysis mechanism. Provides a good example of the problem-based approach to science instruction and curriculum. (DDR)

The time required to develop instructional material for an entire course tends to be longer than the lifetime of the system used in the authoring process. Argues that it is difficult to develop new approaches under these circumstances. (DDR)

Examines data collected in two surveys from faculty chemists at the University of Illinois at Chicago who were asked about their use of electronic resources. Highlights include the adoption of technological innovations by faculty, the role of librarians as change agents, and a copy of the survey instrument. (LRW)

Describes the use of an inexpensive device consisting of a plastic soda bottle and a modified plastic cap in a range of demonstrations and experimental activities having to do with the behavior of gases. (Author/WRM)

Suggests that dissatisfaction with the chemistry curriculum is not a new phenomenon and that there appears to be a 30-year cycle of change. Recommends the use of a clear set of goals that would provide more exciting and relevant chemistry for all. (DDR)

Contends that developing computer displays of dynamic motion offers a means to help students understand complex chemistry concepts. Describes how to set up a computer animation team, gives an example of the animation of chemical processes in a standard hydrogen electrode, illustrates how to teach with animations, recommends hardware and software…

Recounts the history of chemistry instruction in English higher education, particularly the development of technical, or industrial, chemistry. Describes attempts to develop independent courses and departments of technical chemistry in the second half of the 19th century and the difficulties experienced. Extends the discussion to applied science…

Presents an action-oriented research account of higher-order cognitive skills (HOCS)-oriented teaching of organic chemistry to freshman and sophomore science majors in small and large classes at a relatively small and large university respectively. Finds that inquiry-oriented class discussions, students' active involvement in the learning process,…