Identified personality traits (extroversion/introversion and neuroticism/stability) that distinguish medical technologists (N=83) and college-level biology, chemistry, and physics teachers (N=57) using the Eysnck Personality Inventory. Also compared personality profiles of these subjects using Holland's Vocational Preference Inventory. Results and…

Describes the environment and responsibilities of a new faculty member at a private medical school. Emphasizes four considerations for starting research programs at such schools and four major sources for research funding. Indicates that, as research programs gain momentum, more time is available to increase participation in teaching and service.…

Presents a summary of responses to a brief survey of physiology chairpersons (N=117) on use of computer-based education (CBE) materials in physiology and an overview of discussions that occurred at a workshop focusing on this topic. Indicates that the popular use of materials is for simulations of physiological systems. (JN)

Lists polymer chemistry topics and depth of topics to be covered in general chemistry courses. Also lists topics using polymers as tools for delivering necessary concepts, discussing 11 topic areas. List of readings, information on textbook evaluation, and illustrative examination questions are included. (JN)

Two copy-protected chemistry simulations (for Apple II) are described. The first demonstrates Hess' law of heat reaction. The second illustrates how heat of vaporization can be used to determine an unknown liquid and shows how to find thermodynamic parameters in an equilibrium reaction. Both are self-instructing and use high-resolution graphics.…

Discusses how the earth is a dynamic system that maintains itself in a steady state. Areas considered include large/small-scale earth motions, geologic time, rock and hydrologic cycles, and other aspects dealing with the changing face of the earth. (JN)

Various instruments and techniques for measuring mass are discussed, focusing on the physics behind techniques employed. Equal-arm balances, electronic substitution balance (using electromagnetic force), non-gravimetric weighing (intertial-mass measurement) are among the instruments/techniques considered. (JN)

Provides examples of media coverage on interferon, herpes, and starch blockers, suggesting that biology teachers can put such coverage into broader perspective by answering student questions, explaining details, and sensitizing them to the limitations of the media. Includes resources to help teachers with this task. (JN)

Advocates use of Waters Associates Radial Compression Separation System for high performance liquid chromatography. Discusses instrumentation and reagents, outlining procedure for analyzing various foods and discussing typical student data. Points out potential problems due to impurities and pump seal life. Suggests use of ribose as internal…

Addresses questions about the nature, source, and history of acid rain. In addition, discusses the questions: Why is acid rain a problem? Is acid rain getting worse? What is the threat of further problems? Concludes that it is time to act on the problem and recommends an appropriate course of action. (JN)

Reviews EduTech mechanic simulations of vertical fall with/without air resistance, hunter-monkey paradox, planetary motion for Apple II. The self-contained programs are designed for teacher use during demonstrations or as supplementary tutorial material. Indicates simulations are well done/useful but too much unnecessary (although informative)…

A group of representatives of colleges in western Massachusetts is developing curricula related to nuclear issues. Teaching such issues provides content for promoting liberal arts goals incorporating perspectives of science, engineering and social/political science, and provides opportunities to enlarge students' understanding of the whole domain…

Discusses challenges that should be implemented in chemistry teaching during the 1980s/1990s. These include a focus on social relevance and orientation to student (considering developmental stages, way of thinking, and direct environment). These efforts may change the current negative public image of chemistry. (JN)

Suggestions are provided for demonstrating vector cross product and vector dot product using manipulatives. Also provides a method for producing quick and inexpensive diffraction slits and ideas for demonstrating two-dimensional diffraction. (JM)

Outlines different ways to use microcomputers in science laboratories: (1) as electronic blackboards (simulations, data presentation, number crunching); (2) as universal laboratory instruments (control technology, sound output, time measurement, digital-analog conversions); (3) for educational management; and (4) for computer assisted learning.…