The laboratory curriculum of an introductory physical geology course which emphasizes a peer-learning approach is discussed. (Author/SA)

Poses some questions and practical answers to help teachers and students use computers effectively in science classes. Sample questions include: Does the increased use of computers in classrooms inhibit any student's progress toward scientific literacy? How do males and females respond differently to computer use in science classrooms? and How can…

Describes the reform of an introductory biology curriculum to reverse high attrition rates. Objectives include fostering self-directed learning, emphasizing process over content, and offering laboratory experiences that model the way to acquire scientific knowledge. Teaching methods include discussion, group mentoring, laboratory sections, and…

Describes a writing-intensive ecology course designed to foster the development of writing and critiquing skills early in the semester and immerse students in the peer-review process toward the end of the course. By critiquing other scientific papers, students gain insight into the effectiveness of their own writing while also increasing their…

Explores how research on how people think, learn, and remember can be used as a guide in redesigning higher education, especially science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Asserts that such research suggests against lectures, "canned" laboratory work, and frequent testing. (EV)

Described is an undergraduate interdisciplinary project encompassing physics, computer science, and geology and involving a number of students from several academic departments. The project used the topic of the occurrence of in-home radon. Student projects, radon sampling, and results are discussed. (CW)

Presented is a brief review of the literature concerned with student evaluation of teaching. The interpretation of the results of these evaluations as well as suggestions for designing a useful instrument are discussed. (CW)

The construction and use of an instrument to monitor ultraviolet radiation from the sun are discussed. A diagram of the ultraviolet-B radiometer which is connected to a digital voltmeter is provided. (CW)

Discussed is the use of model rocketry to teach the principles of Newtonian mechanics. Included are forces involved; calculations for vertical launches; two-dimensional trajectories; and variations in mass, drag, and launch angle. (CW)

Described are the theory and operation of Van De Graaff generators. The experience of one group of people in the reconditioning and repair of their apparatus is discussed. (CW)

Described is a simulation game designed to reinforce the biological concepts of poisoning, encourage critical thinking and deductive reasoning, and be enjoyed by the students. Discussed is the plot design, the setting, the characters, the analysis, and results of the simulation. Examples of the data and case histories generated by this game are…

The purpose of this article is to help teachers and students understand the various forms used for scientific papers and reports by presenting formats that are generally accepted by the scientific community. Highlighted are the areas of format and style. Seven references are listed. (CW)

Presented is a bibliography of periodical literature on the following topics: the impact of science and technology, art and architecture, biography, computers, international science and technology, and development and modernization. Also presented is an annotated bibliography of children's books, books on economics, the environment, and the…

Explored are the following dimensions of scientific literacy: the ethos of modern science and the cumulative achievements of science and technology in the history of the United States and in the nature of contemporary society. Also discussed is the reform movement in science education. (KR)

The advantages of microchemistry in terms of economics and safety are discussed. A list of six companies known to supply apparatus and reagents for microscale experimentation is provided. (CW)