Evaluates the long-term use of integrated laboratories in undergraduate chemistry programs. Reports that this approach offers a number of advantages over conventional laboratories, including an improvement in the amount of student knowledge and experience gained, better preparation of students for research, and more efficient utilization of lab…

In a science class of 43 Turkish eighth-graders, an experimental group performed investigative lab activities; controls used worksheets. Although the pretest showed similar logical thinking ability, after 5 weeks of instruction the experimental group had significantly higher science achievement scores. (SK)

Explains how to manage waste after a classroom laboratory experiment which generally has the potential to generate large amounts of waste. Focuses on pollution prevention and the selection processes to eliminate or minimize waste. (YDS)

Compares the revised Blue Bottle formulation to the classical Blue Bottle. Indicates that the revised formulation gives a somewhat bluer solution, but initially slower reduction when compared to the classical formulation. (Author/KHR)

Describes the development of new laboratory-based assessments to promote the professional development of technicians in education. Discusses defining standards, the new Scottish/National Vocational Qualifications, and awarding Arrangements. (JRH)

Describes the open-ended investigative approach implemented in science laboratories and provides guidelines for how to run and supervise laboratory-based coursework for A-level students. Identifies suitable topics and explains the teacher's role, time management, and instructional strategies. (Author/YDS)

Compares two laboratory treatments: (1) Constructing and Applying the Concepts of Physics (CACP) which is guided-inquiry; and (2) Toys in Motion (TIM) which focuses on problem solving skills and design work. Discusses the two laboratory courses and assessment procedures. (YDS)

Introduces a study investigating graduate teaching assistants' (GTA) perceptions on their role in conducting laboratories and explores the benefits of inquiry-based laboratories for GTAs considering their experiences and knowledge. (Contains 22 references.) (YDS)

Explores the dominant factor controlling the distribution of Daphnia. Describes components of a temperature gradient apparatus that can be assembled from materials readily obtainable in the laboratory and hardware stores. Investigates whether the mean depth of Daphnia is determined by temperature. (KHR)

Describes an automatic pipette washer that is functional, inexpensive, and easy to construct from locally available parts. (KHR)

Discusses the changes that schools will have to make to ensure that all lab exercises are done in compliance with the new chemical hygiene law. Two tables are included: (1) Chemical Hygiene Compliance; and (2) Duties of a Chemical Hygiene Officer. (ZWH)

Explains why laboratory strains of bakers yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, are particularly suited for classroom science activities. Describes the sexual life cycle of yeast and the genetic system with visible mutations. Presents an overview of activities that can be done with yeast and gives a source for teachers to obtain more information. (PR)

Describes various hazards associated with electricity and electrical usage that can result in fire, explosion, burn, and shock. Presents diverse techniques and methods that one can utilize to protect laboratory personnel from common, yet dangerous, electrical hazards. (Author/JJK)

Reports on how OECD Member countries are rethinking their school labs with a move toward more flexible approaches in areas such as incorporating new technology, design, safety, and classroom flexibility. Switzerland, France, Ireland, South Australia, and the state of Maryland are covered. (GR)

Gives advice on the legal necessity of safety planning for school science (or other) laboratories. Recommends looking into governmental definitions of the term "laboratory" to determine which educational activities should be covered by safety planning. (WRM)