Describes major features of a computer-operated, cybernetic potentiostat and the development, design, and operation of the software in ROM. The instrument contains control circuitry and software making it compatible with the static mercury drop electrode produced by EG&G Princeton Applied Research Corporation. Sample results using the…

A National Academy of Sciences (NAS) report found no evidence that leaks of technical information from universities or other research centers have damaged national security. However, in areas where control is warranted, decisions should be based on criteria. These criteria and issues related to security control and technological transfer are…

Bioinformatics embraces powerful new knowledge and techniques which, Janus-like, promise advances in medicine and agriculture and threaten new weapons for warfare. To guard against misuse of bioknowledge, nations must foster free international communication against experts. (Author)

Three different simulation and gaming techniques are described in detail as examples of exercises that provide education through science, demonstrating how science and technology fit into the broad political, social, and environmental context. These games and simulations also cultivate useful skills and desirable attitudes. (Author/JN)

Highlights four workshops held at the Seventh Biennial Conference on Chemical Education (Stillwater, Oklahoma 1982). Workshops focused on microcomputer tools for chemists, writing software for microcomputers, Project SERAPHIM instructional computer programming contest, and preparing three-dimensional photographs of models and structures. (JN)

Using genetic engineering as an example, issues related to functions of universities/industry and scientific research are discussed. A research agreement between MIT and Exxon Corporation (on combustion science) is outlined, addressing issues related to such agreements (including patents/patent ownership and publications). Suggests future…

Presents background information and procedures for producing sequential color reactions. With proper selection of pH indicator dyes, most school colors can be produced after mixing colorless solutions. Procedures for producing white/purple and red/white/blue colors are outlined. Also outlines preparation of 2, 4, 2', 4',…

Assesses student responses to and evaluates effectiveness of exercises designed to develop critical and analytical reasoning skills in the biological sciences. In answering exercises consisting of problems in a multiple-choice format, students are required to write out justifications for acceptance/rejection of each choice. Significant improvement…

Reports on an explosion that occurred using Tollens' reagent, emphasizing that students should prepare the reagent immediately before use and discard it immediately after use by flushing it down the drain. States that under no conditions should Tollens' reagent be stored. (Author/JN)

Describes 14 experiments that illustrate, via color changes, a broad scope of fundamental phenomena in polymer science. The experiments, suitable for high school through graduate level, require only test tubes, filter paper, heat source (hot plate or hair drier), and ultra-violet light source. (JN)

Ability of five cognitive characteristics to predict students' (N=96) achievement of evolution and natural selection concepts was measured. Results, among others, indicate that disembedding ability, prior knowledge, and evolutionary belief were significantly related to achievement while developmental level and mental capacity were not. (JN)

Presents data on student performance in a competency-based, multiple-opportunity format physics course, indicating that costs are related to character of examination questions and comprehensional modes of students. Compares costs for single/multiple trial formats, showing that multiple-trial opportunity has lower costs and a higher yield of…

Lists 1981-82 chemistry and chemical engineering degrees awarded by American Chemical Society-approved schools and provides summary degree data for 1978-82 graduate student enrollments. Indicates decline in bachelor's and rise in both master's and doctoral degrees. Also highlights activities/reports of the American Chemical Society Committee on…

A course on the evolvement of life was developed using a thematic, problem-oriented approach rather than the traditional, discipline-oriented approach. Course content, format, and evaluation are discussed. Textbooks and related materials used in the course are also discussed. (Author/JN)

Mineralogy has become increasingly linked to chemistry and physics during recent years. This relationship between chemistry, physics, and mineralogy, as indicated by the content of conference papers, research studies, and physical/chemical laboratory procedures used in mineralogy, is reviewed. Creative applications of established mineralogic…