Determined importance of transition between a student's initial collegiate science experience and the decision to continue in science, and whether reasons students give to explain their success or failure in their first course are related to that decision. Results demonstrate a sense of competence for students who continue in science. (Author/JM)

Examines why the technological superiority of the United States is being eroded, considering declining enrollments in college and secondary school science, faculty shortages, and other areas. Offers suggestions to remedy the situation, including making closer ties between colleges/universities and secondary schools, retraining teachers, and using…

Provides data (obtained from an American Chemical Society survey) on undergraduate studies in chemistry. Lists and discusses chemistry, elective chemistry, and supporting courses (such as writing and physics) considered to be important by professional chemists. Also recommends that undergraduates pursue studies in biochemistry, polymer chemistry,…

Describes an Apple computer program (listing available from author) which simulates Fraunhofer and Fresnel diffraction using vector addition techniques (vector chaining) and allows user to experiment with different shaped multiple apertures. Graphics output include vector resultants, phase difference, diffraction patterns, and the Cornu spiral…

Discusses the realities of implementing a computer-assisted program in high school level science classes, offering some practical suggestions for making such a program successful. Also includes information on several software packages for interfacing microcomputers to sensing equipment. (JN)

This case study describes how path analysis and causal modeling were used to assess the impact of federal research and development spending on Ph.D production in science and engineering at leading research universities. The nature of existing data, integrated into a single data base from seven surveys, influenced the research methodology. (BS)

Describes "The Kinetic Karnival of Jearl Walker," six 30-minute television programs. Programs focus on: forces/collisions; rotation; fluid flow and friction; viscosity; Leidenfrost effect; and the science of cooking. Teacher's manual containing description, class preparation, questions, and bibliography are provided with each program (available in…

Ferns in culture provide versatile and easily manipulated material for a wide variety of experiments and observations. Information is provided that supplements earlier reports of the vast experimental potential of these cryptogams and outlines laboratory exercises which reveal the regenerative behavior of fern tissue. (JN)

Describes an introductory chemistry course for nurses in which students learn basic chemical principles by performing 12 chemical analyses that are routinely conducted on body fluids and listed on a patient's clinical laboratory chart. (MLH)

A new interdisciplinary science and mathematics course for preservice elementary/special education teachers at LaSalle University (Pennsylvania) is examined. "Explorations in Science and Mathematics" was designed to develop core skills, critical thinking and communication, understanding of math and science as real-life activities,…

This paper reports on a study of a structured active learning approach to an analytical chemistry course. The purpose of the study was to assess the longitudinal outcomes of this approach and to provide feedback to curriculum developers about the effects of the changes being made in the chemistry curriculum. The data, collected from a cohort of…

Describes the science program devised by Cantonsville Community College to provide nursing and other paramedical students with an adequate knowledge of science. The program recognizes and attempts to remedy the weak science backgrounds of many students training for paramedical careers. (JR)

Discusses the role of urban universities in improving science/mathematics training in schools. Indicates that these universities must take the lead in curriculum revision, research emphasizing application of knowledge, forming arrangements with private economic enterprises, and in public service to accomplish this improvement. (JN)

The University of Georgia (UGA) biosafety program was initiated in response to requirements for recombinant DNA experiments rather than laboratory-acquired infections. This and other environmental safety programs at UGA are described, considering three of the four recognized levels of biocontainment. A fire extinguisher inspection computer program…

Describes equipment for recording human breathing (stethographs, tambors, spirometers), construction of pooters (pipettes), field exercise on examining epiphyte distribution on tree bark, and vertebrate skeleton models for teaching locomotion. Includes abstract of student research project examining pH on Colpoda encystment and reviews of…