Introductory courses in biology are often either designed for majors or watered-down versions for nonmajors that are not stimulating. A course developed for nonmajors emphasizes the relationship of biology to the human condition and focuses on five basic concepts while being flexible enough to adapt to new research and technology. (MSE)

Examines possible benefits when Ausubelian learning approaches are integrated into computer-assisted instruction, presenting an example of this integration in a computer program dealing with introductory ecology concepts. The four program parts (tutorial, interactive concept mapping, simulations, and vee-mapping) are described. (JN)

Describes a system of interfacing allowing a range of signal conditioning and control modules to be connected to microcomputers, enabling execution of such experiments as: examining rate of cooling; control by light-activated switch; pH measurements; control frequency of signal generators; and making automated measurements of frequency response of…

Describes an interface designed to meet the requirements of an instrumentation teaching laboratory, particularly to develop computer-controlled digital circuitry while exploiting electrical drive properties of common transistor-transistor logic (TTL) devices, minimizing cost/number of components. Discusses decoding for Pet, switches, lights, and…

Examines social influences which discourage women from pursuing studies in computer science, including monopoly of computer time by boys at the high school level, sexual harassment in college, movies, and computer games. Describes some initial efforts to encourage females of all ages to study computer science. (JM)

Highlights advances/discoveries (and scientists responsible for them) in various science areas during 1983: space science (shuttle flights, Russia); astronomy (infrared satellite, inflationary universe); physics (W/Z particles); chemistry (carbon bonding); environment (acid rain, dioxins, El Nino); bioscience (chemical signals); paleontology…

Reports results of a survey of National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) members (N=509 representing a 51 percent return rate). Personal, educational, employment, and professional factors affecting members' role/status as professional biology educators are considered. (JN)

This paper illustrates the rivalry and dichotomy between science and teacher education programs by describing and contrasting the nature of the two cultures. The two cultures are portrayed through a series of three contrasts: (1) "Weeding Out" vs. nurturing; (2) meritocratic vs. democratic; and (3) masculine vs. feminine. Two studies…

Presents annotated list of computer programs related to geophysics, geomorphology, paleontology, economic geology, petroleum geology, and miscellaneous topics. Entries include description, instructional use(s), programing language, and availability. Programs described in previous installments (found in SE 533 635 and 534 182) focused on…

Describes course on applications of computers to chemistry, computer-assisted instruction laboratory on measurement/error for high school chemistry, sample dispenser-computer grading system for quantitative analysis courses, and computer programs on nomenclature/preparations/reactions and least-squares refinement of pseudorotation parameters in a…

Presents chemistry experiments, laboratory procedures, demonstrations, and classroom materials/activities. These include: experiments on colloids, processing of uranium ore, action of heat on carbonates; color test for phenols and aromatic amines; solvent properties of non-electrolytes; stereoscopic applications/methods; a valency balance;…

Three separate but related topics are discussed. These include the status of analytical chemistry in academia, the decline of science education in the United States (offering possible solutions to the problem), and the future of computers in analytical chemistry. (JN)

Ten computer simulations for the Apple II are described. Subject areas of programs include: population dynamics, plant competition, enzyme kinetics, evolution and natural selection, genetic mapping, ammonia synthesis, reaction kinetics, wave interference/diffraction, satellite orbits, and particle scattering. (JN)

Computer graphics was selected as the means of teaching students to use the computer as a tool to enhance their comprehension of scientific and technical principles. Discusses strategies used and provides examples of student-generated graphics in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and engineering mechanics. (JN)

Determined relationships between college/secondary earth science teachers' confidence in ability to teach field-based earth science cognitive objectives and perceived sources of that confidence, discussing objectives teachers felt confident/unconfident in teaching. Indicates that inservice education ranked behind preservice education or teaching…