Considers the role of books and reading in undergraduate education. Highlights include the future of books in American colleges, including reader interaction and new communications formats challenging printed text; literacy and the undergraduate, including new information technologies; and the role of reading in a liberal education and in lifelong…

In response to existing educational systems producing individuals who fail to have sound working knowledge bases, this article examines uses of technology to improve instructional methods. Reviews results of a case study that use problem-based learning as a collaborative learning method for medical undergraduates, and presents six principles of…

Reports on a study of the number of four-year Bachelor's degrees awarded in economics in 1993-94. Finds that the number of undergraduate degrees in economics continues to decline. Presents three tables of statistical data and discusses possible reasons for this decline. (CFR)

Microcomputer software that simulates drug-concentration time profiles based on user-assigned pharmacokinetic parameters such as central volume of distribution, elimination rate constant, absorption rate constant, dosing regimens, and compartmental transfer rate constants is described. The software is recommended for use in undergraduate…

A consortium of 12 4-year, private liberal arts colleges has sought to address the promises and challenges of information technology for undergraduate education. The effort has involved identification of faculty using technology in teaching, then of their individual strategies and techniques, and the establishment of a home page on the World Wide…

A study examined the nature and scope of teaching-related activities of undergraduate faculty, based on a 1992-93 national faculty survey. The research investigated faculty's professional and personal goals, principal activities and primary interests, preferences for teaching and research, expectations for students, allocation of time, teaching…

One alternative to continued landfilling or incineration is the development of municipal solid waste (MSW) composting facilities. This case study permits students to examine issues associated with environmental contamination by MSW and to make decisions based on agricultural, environmental, economic, food safety, and ethical considerations. The…

This paper reports on a survey from economics departments (n=57) in the United Kingdom which found the major course objectives to be liberal education, training for graduate school, and vocational training. The discussion examines links between functions of economics degrees as seen by educators, course structures, and entry qualifications…

Describes a study of motivational factors influencing 19 first-year students who made the dean's list their first quarter in college, despite a poor academic performance in high school. Applies Weiner's attributional theory of motivation. Most students attributed their prior academic performance to a lack of motivation/effort. (DMM)

The ways in which Miami University (Ohio) has addressed some issues of interdisciplinary study are reported. Issues include disciplinary background needed by students before interdisciplinary study and by teachers before interdisciplinary teaching; the roles of the individual disciplines; intellectual skill development; and interdisciplinary study…

A survey of National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges (NASULGC) members found that, although many purported to be assessing undergraduate student outcomes, most had only recently begun and could not identify specific improvements resulting. However, most found the association's statement of principles on outcomes…

Increased emphasis on research and grantsmanship leaves college faculty with little time or inclination for undergraduate teaching. Concern for education has given way to concern for power. Higher education is now only distantly connected with shaping a citizenry. (Author/MSE)

Discussed is the idea that scientific illiteracy among scientists lies at the heart of the problems with undergraduate science education. Included is a description of a science literacy course for nonmajors and a proposed list of the most important ideas underlying science. (KR)

Survey of institutions offering a bachelor's or higher degree in library science showed that the higher the level of the program, the more likely that artificial intelligence/expert systems (AI/ES) courses would be offered. Study concludes that all master's and doctoral level programs should include AI/ES units, and that greater emphasis should be…

Describes a class project involving citation verification generated by a student's skepticism of the accuracy of a text. Emphasizes the importance of spontaneity and student interest in the success of such a project. Urges teachers to be alert for a spontaneous, student generated challenge to the credibility of texts in use. (DK)