Describes an introductory astronomy course at Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, in which the Keller Plan (personalized system of instruction) is used. Course evaluation results and typical student comments about this self-paced program are provided. (JR)

Considers ways in which teachers can increase student motivation when using the lecture method of instruction. Outlines some of the more serious demotivators associated with this instructional method, and discusses how principles of industrial psychology can be used to increase student motivation and achievement. (JR)

Examines some facets of motivation, and investigates how students may be motivated (or demotivated) by the compatibility of their particular learning style with the learning material available to them. (JR)

Discusses the implications of piaget's intellectual developmentmodel with respect to teaching at the college level. Many students operate at the concrete level and are incapable of abstract formal operations, however their interest and motivation can be maintained through active involvement with the representative ideas and materials of the…

Uses extracts from a Learning Activity Package in basic surveying to illustrate the motivating factors found in the audio-tutorial system of instruction. (JR)

Briefly describes a number of laboratory and instructional materials that are commerically available and of interest to engineering educators. (JR)

Discusses offering of a modular course designed to acquaint the student with methods of observing and quantitatively measuring the properties and reactions of chemicals. Included is a brief sketch of course content and requirements. (CC)

Discusses the use of the data collecting and storage capabilities of the computer to monitor the progress of students and investigate the effectiveness of teaching strategies. (CC)

Discusses fundamentals of rainbow formation, including the reflection and dispersion theories underlying primary, secondary and high-order bows. Included is a series of further analytical problems. (CC)

This survey of engineering freshmen is the fourth of a series of five surveys seeking to determine the characteristics and attitudes of engineering students and the changes in these areas which occur as the students proceed through their first two years in engineering. Thirteen of the original sixteen schools included in the spring 1977 freshman…