Reports on a two-year project in a biology course for nonmajors in which lectures were replaced with guided learning activities and weekly exams designed to help students gain the confidence to be independent learners, especially in science, assume responsibility for their own learning, improve study skills, and make more effective use of class…

Describes and evaluates a technique used in two science lecture courses (biochemistry and introductory meteorology), in which lectures were interspersed with frequent, brief discussions within spontaneously formed small groups. Some differences were found in the ways the two professors managed the technique, but both felt in-class participation…

Compares the effectiveness of two types of art museum tours, the lecture and the inquiry/discussion tour, in promoting learning by college-aged students. Finds that both were equally effective in helping subjects acquire information, but neither encouraged retention; both types were equally enjoyable. Highlights the inconclusiveness of the…

Reports on the effects of constructivist versus traditional teaching approaches on university students' learning about osmosis and diffusion. Students understood diffusion and osmosis more deeply in the constructivist-informed classroom, which used small discussion groups rather than traditional large lecture groups. Suggests ways to improve…

Considers the role of interactive lecturing styles within the context of the Edinburgh University MBA program. Examples show a variety of ways of including student oral participation within the lecture framework. (Author/VWL)

Describes how a faculty member can develop a Web site to enhance a traditional lecture course, based on experiences of a professor teaching Biology at the University of Colorado. Examines advantages and disadvantages of the Web, and provides a 14-item "to do" list for the teacher. Discusses student survey comments about the Web use and…

Describes a course entitled "Art and Art Theory of the 18th Century" designed for both undergraduate and graduate students that introduces them to the demanding work of scholars as opposed to the broad survey courses usually offered. Justifies and highlights the readings for the course and provides a sample schedule. (CMK)

Contends that active learning allows students to become involved in learning by exploring issues and ideas under the guidance of the instructor. Describes the Market Game as an example of active learning that is an interactive game that simulates the behavior of a competitive market. Explores the students' reactions to the game. (CMK)

Considers the use of electronic mail in submitting teacher evaluations, student construction of web pages, and PowerPoint presentation slides in lectures within an economics course in order to improve student interest in economics. Addresses the positive and negative aspects of all three teaching strategies. (CMK)

Demonstrates that computer-based lecture (CBL) can enhance student learning in economics courses. Addresses various tools and techniques that teachers can utilize, such as assisted notetaking and presentation materials. Considers four active, collaborative exercises that can be facilitated through CBL techniques. Includes reactions by Gisela Meyer…

Compares exam scores in a pharmacy calculations course of 55 students in a traditional lecture format and 55 in computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Scores were similar before separation into groups and after six weeks of instruction by either method. The CAI program was easy to use and well received by students, and this group spent less time…

Summative evaluation of library instruction at UCLA found no difference between undergraduate biology students in a lecture group and those in a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) group and prompted the elimination of the lecture method. This article discusses the conceptual framework for the CAI and includes the follow-up survey results. (PEN)

Designates Frank Halliwell as an inspiring science teacher who employed the demonstration lecture method very effectively. Traces the origin and development of this method to John Tyndall and provides numerous examples of his work. (DDR)

Describes a visit to the Moscow State University of Culture which includes the largest library and information science program in Russia. Highlights include lecture formats and topics; the lack of instructional technology; visits to other libraries; language barriers; the value of smaller group interactions; and recommendations for program…

Describes efforts to include cooperative learning and multimedia in a general chemistry lecture course at the State University of New York College at Oneonta. Highlights include the need for a new course design due to declining student performance, the use of presentation software, costs, student reactions, and differences in teaching styles. (LRW)