Presents two methods used to measure the refractive indices and double-refraction of fibers. Experiments are described, with one involving the use of Pluta microscope in the double-beam interference technique, the other employing the multiple-beam technique. Immersion liquids are discussed that can be used in the experiments. (TW)

Differentiates the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle (or Krebs cycle) from glycolysis, and describes the bridge between the two as being the conversion of pyruvate into acetyl coenzyme A. Discusses the eight steps in the TCA cycle, the results of isotopic labeling experiments, and the net effects of the TCA cycle. (TW)

Describes a laboratory experiment in which benzene fluorescence is quenched by bis(acetylacetonato) copper(II). Discusses how this experiment can demonstrate a special technique used in the field of photochemistry. Provides an outline of the experimental procedure and discusses its results. (TW)

Discusses the concepts of relativity, mass, and energy, and the relationships between them. Argues that mass conservation inevitably follows from energy conservation. Proposes a scheme for introducing the laws relating to these concepts in general chemistry courses. (TW)

Points out the need to provide engineers with training in human relations. Describes the process of developing a document defining the problem and steps to be taken toward solution, submitted to students for their evaluation. (JM)

Proposes a faculty retreat as an opportunity to approach decision-making through consensus-building strategies. Identifies four decision-making stages and outlines techniques to be used at each stage. (JM)

Discusses findings from report "Maintaining America's Scientific Productivity: The Necessity of the Liberal Arts Colleges" produced at Oberlin College. Characterizes science majors, faculty, and state of facilities at such schools, and speculates on needed financial support to maintain and enhance their current position. (JM)

Describes an inexpensive molecular model which is small enough to manipulate and large enough to be seen by large audiences. Discusses models of atoms and double and triple bonds. (JM)

Describes a method of flow injection analysis intended for calculation of complex-formation and redox reaction stoichiometries based on a closed-loop configuration. The technique is suitable for use in undergraduate laboratories. Information is provided for equipment, materials, procedures, and sample results. (JM)

Examined alternative conceptions of animals and animal classification by interviewing fifth grade, eighth grade, and freshmen/sophmore college students (N=62). Subjects were asked to name five animals, state critical attributes, and complete a classification task. Results indicate all ages fail to generalize and discriminate among examples and…

Highlights findings, conclusions, and recommendations from a 3-year study of academic laboratory equipment conducted by three university associations. Although ultimately the problem's solution will require increases in funding, several actions (which are described) could be taken to improve the efficiency of acquisition, management, and use of…

Liberal arts graduates should be educated in these aspects of science: hypothesis and experimentation as the basis of scientific thought, problems of translating scientific thought into economic and social benefits, concepts of probability and uncertainty, and conflicts in scientific, technological, and public policy goals. (MSE)

Two common challenges in teaching large lecture courses are student anonymity and student heterogeneity., An innovative approach to meeting these challenges was implemented in a human physiology course at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The use of an automatic telephone answering machine is described. (MLW)

Presents a theoretical framework for and a detaled description of a model for teaching scientific analogies. The framework focuses on the definition of an analogy, analogical learning, variables related to analogical learning, evaluating outcomes of analogical limiting, and limitations of using analogies in teaching. (JN)

The "Research Vessel Westward" provides a sea-going research laboratory for students from various disciplines to learn oceanography concepts and research techniques while earning university credit. Descriptions of equipment, organizational structure, and student research responsibilities are presented. (DH)