Describes the criteria used for textbook selection or rejection, how the criteria differ depending on the level of students, and how the criteria differ according to the instructor's training. Discusses results and implications for students, instructors, and publishers. (CW)

Describes procedures for examining a beetle's anatomy with microsurgical tools. Instructions for experimental exercises dealing with the insect's structure and digestive enzymes are outlined. Tips on how to make a microscalpel are also included. (TW)

This catalog lists resources available for classroom use in teaching about anatomy and physiology which are alternatives to dissection. The entries are provided under three main categories: (1) Whole Animal Dissection/Vivisection; (2) Animal Organ or System Anatomy and Physiology; and (3) Other, including animal behavior, biotechnology,…

What if you could build a machine that could make it's own fuel, adapt to changing conditions, and generate priceless products like air and water? Over millions of years, vascular plants have developed roots, stems and leaves that work together to perform these feats, as well as provide energy for every living thing on Earth! In Plant Structure…

At the introductory level, the computer provides an effective alternative to using animals for laboratory teaching. Computer software can simulate the operation of multiple organ systems. Advantages of software include alteration of variables that are not easily changed in vivo, repeated interventions, and cost-effective hands-on student access.…

Reviews five compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM) products and one video series that focus on science projects: (1) "Body Park" (Virtual Entertainment); (2) "The Magic School Bus Explores the Solar System" (Microsoft); (3) "The Magic School Bus Explores the Human Body" (Microsoft); (4) "Science Curriculum Assistance Program" (Demco); and (5)…

Community college anatomy and physiology students participated in a 14-hour study skills class designed to determine the effectiveness of a self-regulated strategy on immediate recall and retention of science knowledge. Results indicated that students who constructed graphic postorganizers recalled significantly more than students who simply…

An ethnographic study of spontaneous conversations of elementary children and their accompanying adults during a zoo field trip was conducted. (LZ)

This article argues that computerized representations of anatomy can integrate both the spatial and symbolic domains of learning better than traditional anatomical representations. A project at the University of Washington is developing a Digital Anatomist Program, multimedia software that can be used on currently-available desktop computers.…

An active, case-based project (CBP) learning program in anatomy was evaluated to measure differences between male and female students in perception of the initial discussion sessions as developing deep learning skills, and also in performance on CBP and essay components of the written examination. Females responded more positively to discussion…

Discusses the lack of compassion in biology teachers for laboratory animals as well as their indifference to students' compassion for animals. Teachers see dissection as scientific method, whereas students may see it as cruel. If educators are repeatedly exposed to compassion for all life by students, they will eventually see the need for greater…

Self-rated health as a predictor of mortality has been studied primarily in large, representative populations, with relatively little progress toward understanding the information processing that individuals use to arrive at these ratings. With subsamples of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) Epidemiologic Follow-up Study…

In an attempt to generate student enthusiasm on the subject of genetics, the author developed a Punnett square activity centered on the genetics of corn snakes to teach students about Mendelism and genetic diversity. As they began the activity, however, some unexpected twists occurred that allowed for investigation into corn snake anatomy and…

The National Inquiry Standard for Science Education Preparation requires science teachers to introduce students to scientific inquiry to solve problems by various methods, including active learning in a collaborative environment. In order for science teachers to comply with this inquiry standard, activities must be designed for students to…

Neuromaturation is the functional development of the central nervous system (CNS). It is by its very nature a dynamic process, a continuous interaction between the genome and first the intrauterine environment, then the extrauterine environment. Understanding neuromaturation and being able to measure it is fundamental to infant neurodevelopmental…