The emergence of molecular tools in multiple disciplines has elevated the importance of undergraduate laboratory courses that train students in molecular biology techniques. Although it would also be desirable to provide students with opportunities to apply these techniques in an investigative manner, this is generally not possible in the…

We introduce a computer exercise that bridges spectroscopy and thermodynamics using statistical mechanics and the experimental data taken from the commonly used laboratory exercise involving the rotational-vibrational spectrum of HCl. Based on the results from the analysis of their HCl spectrum, students calculate bulk thermodynamic properties…

This article describes a discovery experiment for general chemistry and organic chemistry labs. Although the pinacol rearrangement has been employed in undergraduate organic laboratories before, in this application organic chemistry students act as mentors to students of general chemistry. Students work together using distillation--a new technique…

Tablet PC technology can enliven the classroom environment because it is dynamic, interactive, and "organic," relative to the rigidity of chalkboards, whiteboards, overhead projectors, and PowerPoint presentations. Unlike traditional computers, tablet PCs employ "digital linking," allowing instructors and students to freehand annotate, clarify,…

The present state of information communication technology makes it possible to devise and run computer-based e-laboratories accessible to any user with a connection to the Internet, equipped with very simple technical means and making full use of web services. Thus, the way is open for a new strategy of physics education with strongly global…

Our research objectives focused on monitoring (i) students' activities during experimental teaching phases in an out-of-school gene technology laboratory, and (ii) potential relationships with variables such as work group size and cognitive achievement. Altogether, we videotaped 20 work groups of A-level 12th graders (n = 67) by continuous…

A microcomputer-based Universal Laboratory Training and Research Aid (ULTRA) provides meaningful laboratory access to blind students and students with upper limb disabilities. Using ULTRA, blind students can perform chemical experiments independently. (CL)

A report on the National Bureau of Standards is presented. It provides national measurement standards for some 40 physical quantities related through the laws of physics to the basic six - length, time, mass, temperature, electric current, and luminous intensity. (DF)

Highlights the guidelines for assuring safety that are endorsed within the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Pathways to the Science Standards. Discusses findings of an ongoing study of 500 science teachers that indicate science teacher understanding of the National Science Education Standards and NSTA's guidelines as they relate to…

Presents an inquiry analysis tool and adaptation principles to help teachers evaluate and adapt laboratory instructional materials to be more inquiry-oriented. Based on the National Research Council's (NRC) essential features of inquiry. (NB)

Reports on a survey that focuses on the content coverage of general chemistry courses for science and engineering majors, both in the classroom and in the laboratory, as reported by leading U.S. colleges and universities. Findings indicate relatively minor changes in content since a previous study conducted in 1986. Discusses shifts in content…

Describes a lab activity in which yeast is used as a model system for human digestion. Uses Smith fermentation tubes to measure carbon dioxide released from fermentation. (Author/KHR)

This article provides some tried and true methods of avoiding materials management and traffic problems associated with hands-on activities. While each class has its own personality and each teacher has his or her own style, these tips can be useful and practical in a variety of settings.

Solid-phase extraction (SPE) was used to demonstrate how various lipids and lipid classes could be separated in a biochemistry laboratory setting. Three different SPE methods were chosen on their ability to separate a lipid mixture, consisting of a combination of a either a fatty acid, a triacylglycerol, a mono- or diacylglycerol, phospholipid,…