Presents a debate on the future of Master of Science (M.S.) degree programs in chemistry at nondoctoral institutions, which occurred at a regional conference held at Eastern Michigan University. (HM)

This column for high school teachers, written by high school teachers, discusses several interesting anecdotes related to the formulation of laws and the determination of constants. Science history is presented in a manner that can enliven classroom presentations and aid in understanding the principle itself. (Authur/SA)

This experiment is intended as a classroom demonstration. It describes the preparation of materials, the procedure, and a few remarks related to demonstrating travelling waves of chemical activity in the Zaikin-Zhabotinskii-Winfree Reagent. (SA)

Discusses the problem of disposing of unwanted and dangerous chemicals found in storage rooms in elementary and secondary schools. Suggestions for how science teachers and principals deal with this problem are also presented. (HM)

Seven dimensions for characterizing a curriculum in higher education are suggested. They include: prior knowledge; institutional response to prior knowledge; primary teaching mode; rates of learning; styles of learning; content openness; and assessment. This characterization is applied specifically to chemistry departments. (LBH)

Presents a technique used in a biochemistry course in which students present a poster session at the end of the course. Results indicate that students exhibit enthusiasm for their topic and that this technique can be used as an alternative assessment method. (DDR)

Provides a critical analysis of the role that atomic theory plays in the science curriculum from elementary through secondary school. Examines structural concepts from the perspective of the theory of meaningful learning, information processing theory, and the alternative conceptions movement. Contains 54 references. (DDR)

What happens when students of chemistry fail to recognize the metaphorical status of certain models and interpret them literally? Suggests that such failures lead students to form perceptions of phenomena that can be misleading. Argues that the key to making good use of metaphorical models is a recognition of their metaphorical status. Examines…

Describes a basic introductory chemistry experiment for science majors which departs from synthesis and moves instead into the realm of formulation. As part of a project that reorganizes the introductory chemistry sequence according to subjects with which students are acquainted, this laboratory makes use of oxidation-reduction chemistry to make…

Describes the environmental health major and the toxic substance control specialization at Oakland University in Michigan. Also includes degree requirements and course descriptions. (DKM)

Identifies and describes the differences in the problem-solving methods used by faculty teaching introductory chemistry and students enrolled in an introductory chemistry course. Results indicate that students correctly solve algorithmic-mode problems more frequently. Contains 33 references. (DDR)

Describes a partnership formed between Bentley College (Massachusetts) and General Mills to improve an undergraduate New Product Development course. Highlights include a team approach; the role of videoconferencing; developing a prototype product in the chemistry laboratory; feedback from General Mills; student reactions; and future possibilities.…

Presents a selection of Web-based reference resources in the earth and physical sciences, focusing in particular on geology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, and weather. Sites listed are those likely to be of broad interest, and most or all of the contents of the resources listed are available for free. (Author)

Provides a comprehensive review of literature regarding misconceptions that are held by secondary students in chemistry. Makes some recommendations based on the research. Contains 77 references. (DDR)

Highlights the need to reinvigorate chemistry education by means of the visual-spatial approach, an approach wholly in conformance with the way modern chemistry is thought about and practiced. Discusses the changing world, multiple intelligences, imagery, chemistry's pictorial language, and perceptions in chemistry. Presents suggestions on how to…