Discusses some of the ways that some scientific concepts evolve and are perpetuated, even if they are not completely accurate. Uses the example of groundwater, citing numerous ways that various people understand it and, in many cases, form misconceptions. (TW)

Discusses the need to take into account the effects of arrested fractional crystallization in the petrographic classification of volcanic rocks containing plagioclase phenocrysts. Describes the development and use of a computer program to accomplish this task graphically. (TW)

Describes an exercise which provides a small data set consisting of the localities where various genera of a fictitious group of fossil "Archaeomorphs" have been found on various continental blocks. The activity can be used to develop hypotheses regarding plate tectonic processes and the present arrangement of fossil localities. (TW)

Describes a single input/single output feedback control system design program for IBM PC and compatible microcomputers. Uses a heat exchanger temperature control loop to illustrate the various applications of the program. (ML)

Explains how multiple choice test items can be devised to measure higher-order learning, including engineering problem solving. Discusses the value and information provided in item analysis procedures with machine-scored tests. Suggests elements to consider in test design. (ML)

Presents data indicating that learning can be enhanced when information is presented that illustrates how science information can be used to solve problems. The experiments showed positive results through use of video-based macro-contexts. (ML)

Explains the three major types of case studies and reviews their advantages and disadvantages as instructional tools. Presents two examples which were employed in the area of technology at the Open University of the United Kingdom. (ML)

Presents an overview of the teaching of plastics at various levels of technological education in the Netherlands focusing on mechanical engineering. Highlights the design process and discusses the Dutch perspective of the role of materials engineering in engineering curricula. (ML)

Proposes that there is a universal method for all realms of knowledge. Reviews Descartes's definition of the universal method, the engineering definition, and the philosophical basis for the universal method. Contends that the engineering method best represents the universal method. (ML)

Reports on an investigation of 31 introductory geology textbooks indicating that the concept of contact between bodies of rock is only rarely discussed. Data collected pertaining to 15 related terms demonstrated that many are either omitted or inadequately covered. (TW)

Provides directions for interfacing the Lehman seismograph through an analog/digital converter. Discusses potential modifications and applications of this approach. (ML)

Reviews the objectives, themes, and content of a series of five color videotapes on volcanic rock textures. Explains how the tapes, which integrate petrographic observations of textures with computer graphics, can be used in undergraduate and graduate level courses. (ML)

Discusses the differences between problems and exercises in chemistry, and some of the difficulties that arise when the same methods are used to solve both. Proposes that algorithms are excellent models for solving exercises. Argues that algorithms not be used for solving problems. (TW)

Discusses the difference between a generic chemistry problem (one which can be solved using an algorithm) and a harder chemistry problem (one for which there is no algorithm). Encourages teachers to help students recognize these categories of problems so they will be better able to find solutions. (TW)

Discusses the differences between problems and exercises, the levels of thinking required to solve them, and the roles that algorithms can play in helping chemistry students perform these tasks. Proposes that students be taught the logic of algorithms, their characteristics, and how to invent their own algorithms. (TW)