A detailed investigation of the clay-catalyzed condensation of sesamol and other phenols with 3-methyl-2-butenal to give methylenedioxyprecocene (MDP) and other chromenes is presented. The clay-catalyzed microwave-assisted condensation of sesamol with 3-methyl-2-butenal is appropriate for incorporation into undergraduate organic laboratory…

Activities and results of a conference on laboratory instruction in chemistry are discussed. Brief descriptions of eight novel programs are provided. (DT)

In order to serve college administrators, architects and physics educators, a collection was made of material reflecting the state-of-the-art of physics building design. This body of material, including drawings, diagrams, and photographs, resulted largely from extensive interviews with about 50 institutions who had recently built such facilities.…

A list is presented of science buildings at institutions of higher education; buildings are identified by name as reported by the institution, and dates of initial occupancy are shown. A table is included showing regional distribution of instructional laboratories in the science buildings reported--(1) by number and size, (2) by capacity in…

Describes the use of cassette recorders plus color prints as a teaching aid in a laboratory situation, indicating advantages in the areas of education, organization, and ease of implementation. (Author/RAO)

Illustrates ways to recycle plastic milk jugs into useful laboratory equipment. Among the uses described are storage containers, scoops, funnels, and flower pots. (MA)

This article (1) defines risk management and discusses alternatives to treating exposures facing those operating chemical laboratories; (2) indicates how two Virginia universities did or did not apply the risk management concept to their laboratory settings; and (3) identifies potential sources of information on this subject. (JN)

A study is presented to show ways by which management can stimulate technological innovation. (DF)

Miles Pickering joined the Princeton University staff in 1976, became director of the undergraduate chemistry laboratories in 1981, and was a chemistry department lecturer and senior staff member until he died in 1991. Focuses on his inspiring publications in the "Journal of College Science Teaching" and the "Journal of Chemical Education."…

Explains the benefits and strengths of having safety checklists in science laboratories. Presents a checklist that reflects important components of safety that address many situations in school laboratories. (NB)

Discusses the importance of involving students in assessing the risks versus the benefits of specific laboratory activities, completing accident/incident reports, and performing periodic safety inspections. Concludes that involving students enhances their awareness of both hazards and precautions that must be taken. Provides them another avenue…

Presents a checklist as a guide for preparing a set of safety rules that has been adapted from the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission's publication titled "School Science Laboratories: A Guide to Some Hazardous Substances". Addresses work habits; safety wear; facilities and equipment; purchasing, use, and disposal of chemicals; and…