As research equipment becomes more sophisticated and expensive, and as the number of scientists and engineers choosing academic careers shrinks, the start-up costs for recruiting researchers are skyrocketing. The cost typically includes money to provide equipment, facilities, and support needed to set up laboratories and begin research. (MLW)

Presented is a method of demonstrating the optical activity of glucose using an overhead projector and easily obtainable materials. Explores the difference between reflected and transmitted light (Tyndall Effect) using sodium thiosulfate, hydrochloric acid, and an overhead projector. (ML)

Describes three trace determinations of organic substances utilizing a spectrophotometer. Provides procedures and absorbance wavelengths for determining acetonitrile, oxalic acid, and oxalic acid in human serum. Explores the role of acetonitrile and oxalic acid as catalysts in their respective reactions. (ML)

Traces the evolution of the basic writing program at the University of Louisville, as related by its first seven directors. Concludes that pedagogical and political strategies that worked took advantage of the academic and student community around them; unsuccessful ideas were those imposed without consideration of local context. (SR)

Reviews the usage of Genecon, a hand-operated generator, in science laboratory experiments, such as the relationship between motor and generator effects, the system's efficiency, Joule heating, and conversion of mechanical energy into electrical potential energy. Provides the address for purchasing the Genecon and accessories. (YP)

Introduces several one- and two-mode vibrating systems for demonstrations. Provides some recommendations for designing the corridor apparatus. (YP)

Describes a three-week sequence to take undergraduate students through the study of enzyme kinetics in an integrated manner that reinforces the basic concepts of initial velocity and the effects of varying operational parameters. Discusses laboratory sessions and the use of a microcomputer in instruction. (CW)

Describes the life cycle and requirements of midges. Discusses larval substrate preferences, swimming behavior and distribution, developmental rates, temperature tolerances, egg hatching, swarming flights of adults, species composition within a sampling site, and developing a reference collection by rearing larvae. (CW)

Describes the phases of the integration of academic computing into the operations of the Learning Resource Center (LRC) at the Alexandria campus of Northern Virginia Community College. Reviews planning and operational stages and discusses future directions. (DMM)

Describes the chemical analysis and rating system used at "Consumer Reports" in rating antacids. Discusses considerations made concerning dosage and duration of 12 common brands of antacid. (CW)

Discusses general statistical methods which could be employed to develop homework problems and laboratory exercises. Methods emphasize experimental design and the effects of uncertainties on inferences drawn from experimental data. (CW)

Describes a system for computer-assisted practice of Chinese vocabulary. Its main goal is to help students improve their association between the sound of a Chinese word or phrase and its graphic shape in Chinese characters. This system is currently for use with the Victor 9000. (Author/LMO)

Discusses the effects of using carbon dioxide contaminated sodium hydroxide solution as a titrant for a solution of a weak monoprotic acid and the resulting distortion of the titration curve in comparison to one obtained when an uncontaminated titrant is used. (CW)

Reported the development and validation of an integrated model of performance on chemical concept-volumetric analysis. Model was tested on 265 chemistry students in eight schools.Results indicated that for subjects using algorithms without understanding, performance on volumetric analysis problems was not influenced by proportional reasoning…

The use of science laboratories as an instructional tool is reexamined from the points of view of the underlying premises, purposes, and practicality of laboratory instruction. Different approaches to laboratory instruction are outlined, and their relevance for the Dutch Open University's program of distance education is discussed. (Author/MSE)