Discussed are procedures for increasing understanding and appreciation of geology among undergraduates. Included are using student-centered approaches, deemphasizing the use of conventional textbooks, increasing the use of nonspecialized field programs, and increasing the experimental dimensions of geology programs. (CW)

Describes an exercise designed for an introductory level calculus-based physics class. Presents a problem on why a rod dipped in water is stable when it is oriented at an angle with the vertical. Discusses qualitative understanding, mechanical understanding using equations, and experimental verification of the problem. (YP)

Presented are two applications of computer technology to chemistry instruction: the use of a spreadsheet program to analyze acid-base titration curves and the use of database software to catalog stockroom inventories. (CW)

Described is an analytical method that may be used to replace the more difficult, traditional approach for the analysis of silicates. It is argued that this method allows the use of smaller samples and is more sensitive than other techniques. (CW)

The relationships between mathematical competencies possessed by students and selected student characteristics at the beginning of a semester were examined. The relationship between test scores and the type of mathematics courses taken during the semester students were enrolled in an introductory biology course were also investigated. (Author/CW)

Introduces three laboratory exercises which develop an understanding of principles of mechanics by using examples of bicycle operation: Newton's laws, statics and dynamics, and energy relationships. Describes related theory and laboratory procedures with diagrams and pictures in each exercise. (YP)

Summarizes the capabilities of a computer program related to forest fertilization. Provides a description of input parameters, some sample exercises, software specifications, and availability information. Additional references are listed. (Author/RT)

Reports that record enrollments have prompted a rethinking of the nation's higher education policies. Cites several explanations for overcrowding: an increase in the number of students continuing their studies, German students take longer to complete studies, and older students are reentering the university. (RT)

Presents four articles dealing with chaotic systems. Lists sources for nine demonstrations or experiments dealing with self-organization. Provides a vocabulary review of self-organization. Describes three chemical oscillator models. Discusses the role of chaos in flow systems. (MVL)

Discusses a student exercise which requires the optimizing of the charring and atomization temperatures by producing a plot of absorbance versus temperature for each temperature parameter. Notes that although the graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy technique has widespread industrial use, there are no published, structured experiments…

Presents an examination of the buoyancy principle which can serve as a simple but rigorous illustration of a falsification test that not only clears up a possible misconception but also points the way to a number of practical uses of buoyancy measurements that have not generally been recognized. (MVL)

Describes the layout, working principle, and uses of an ultrasonic interferometer for demonstrating the impact of the motion of the medium upon wave propagation. Suggests some technical improvements of the interferometer. (YP)

Describes the use of oceanographers' models for introducing students to the concept of mathematical modeling. Outlines a lesson showing the interrelationship of science and mathematics. (RT)

Describes two simple procedures allowing students to experiment with living membranes and to relate their results to fundamental membrane structure. Provides instructions for determining the effects of temperature and organic solvent stress on cellular membranes, and spectrophotometric analysis. (RT)

Provides a brief introduction with some definitions and properties of Fourier transforms. Shows relations, ways of understanding the mathematics, and applications. Notes proofs are not included but references are given. First of three part series. (MVL)