This article defines high technology, identifies some of the reasons it should be studied, and suggests some ways that it can be studied in industrial arts/technology laboratories. These suggestions include identifying topics for study, gathering information, organizing information, performing laboratory activities, and presenting the study. (CT)

Discusses theory, procedures, and results for an experiment which demonstrates the application of basic physics to chemical problems. The experiment involves the adiabatic process, in which polymerization carried out in a vacuum flask is compared to the theoretical prediction of the model with the temperature-time curve obtained in practice. (JN)

Discusses topics involved in the selection of an analog-to-digital (ADC) converter and associated front-end signal conditioning hardware. Reviews what types of ADC's are available, best type for particular application, conversion rates, amplification, filtering, noise, and compatibility issues. Suggests purchase strategy and supplies names and…

Suggests how modifications on a mini-compressor can result in a low-cost vacuum filtration system for use with suspended sediments in the field or laboratory. Explains and illustrates the changes needed to make the apparatus efficient and servicable for providing data for mass balance, geochemical exploration, and environmental studies. (ML)

Describes a computerized grading system using mark-sense cards to record experimental data. Gives hardware requirements, provides estimated budget, and lists experiments for which mark-sense cards have been developed and are available. Discusses the grading process and programs. (JM)

Notes that writing center teachers' responses to students depend on what the writers want to say (content), how the writers approached the writing (process), and the conventions needed to prepare the final manuscript (skills). Discusses effective ways to conduct these three types of conferences for each stage of the writing process. (HTH)

Lists scholarly works published during the past year that would be of particular interest to those who administer, work in, or make use of writing centers. Includes only works directly connected to writing center theory and practice. (HTH)

Laboratory schools offer an ideal setting for innovation and systematic educational inquiry. Despite the decline in their numbers after World War II, these schools serve needs still strongly present in American public school education. It is time for renewed support of existing schools and development of new ones. (Author/MSE)

Discusses the rationale for and use of minilabs (requiring from 15 to 90 minutes to complete) for freshmen chemistry experiments. Provides several examples, advantages for students and instructors, and results of a questionnaire evaluation completed by 83 students. (JN)

Presents two scenarios to illustrate the difference between liability and negligence. Also presents highlights of four actual cases related to laboratory security, appropriate facilities, proper instructions, and protective gear. (JN)

Provides safety considerations related to chemistry experiments and demonstrations. Includes procedures for a volcano demonstration (which does not use ammonium dichromate) and three clock reactions, a list of hazardous chemicals, and a list of questions to help decide whether the risk of an experiment is acceptable for a class. (JN)

Describes an experiment for recording two individual spectrophotometer response curves. The two curves are directly related to the power of transmitted beams that pass through a solvent and solution. An absorption spectrum of the solution can be constructed from the calculated rations of the curves as a function of wavelength. (JN)

Describes a computer program (for the IBM microcomputer) which simulates pulsatile events in the heart in time frames that approach the speed of physiological events. The program also simulates the experimental laboratory in which the mechanics of an isolated heart can be studied. (Author/JN)

Describes an introductory laboratory format (used for 12 years at Colorado College) that involves students in the design and exploration phases of experiments. The laboratory features include choices of experiments; clearly explained goals; student selection of methods; wise equipment use; check-out procedures with instructor questions; and no…

A television set, piece of aluminum foil, and meter stick can be used to estimate the speed of light within a few percentage points. The activity provides students with success and generates interest in physical optics. Steps in the experiment are outlined along with suggestions for obtaining accurate results. (DH)