A simple chemical sensor-related experiment rooted in the synthesis of polymeric materials for use in either an advanced high-school or undergraduate college laboratory is presented. Students are introduced to and combine to the concepts of the chemical sensor, polymer chemistry, spectroscopy, metal chelates, and quantitative analytical methods.

A set of sophisticated and realistic laboratory simulations is created for use in freshman- and sophomore-level chemistry classes and laboratories called 'Virtual ChemLab'. A detailed assessment of student responses is provided and the simulation's pedagogical utility is described using the organic simulation.

In information systems and end-user computer research, "using" appears to encapsulate a range of activities, such as reading, writing, viewing and so on. And yet it is a grossly inadequate descriptor for any of these activities, failing to account for the fact that texts--digital or otherwise--are produced and engaged by humans for a variety of…

This report identifies and synthesizes what is known about specific program features for children and youth aged 6-17 that might be manipulated or regulated-components such as staff wages, group size, activities, and theoretical approach that make up the "how" of program implementation. The authors have culled information from the limited extant…

This paper reports the development and evaluation of an observation guide that draws on qualitative techniques of participant observation and semistructured interviewing to help anyone interested in visiting and understanding schools to develop a "big picture" profile quickly and efficiently. The guide reflects the philosophy of E.…

Two kinds of perspectives governing the provision and preservation of knowledge, a universal and an ecological perspective, are discussed in this paper. In the first case, scientific observations are represented through a semantic interpretation of facts. This is illustrated with a series of experiments on semantic feature perception in the recall…

Based on a prior model on modularity of the brain, a new modular model of intrapersonal communication was developed which focuses on brain processing, encompassing both the structures and the functions of those structures in the creation of messages. The modular mind is a bio-social model of communication which presupposes a relationship between…

This paper focuses upon the perceptions and the actions of the elementary school principal in the change process. Perceptions of change itself, of control, of the school system, and of the school staff are critical to his/her effectiveness in implementing change. To create an institutional climate that supports change, the principal must provide…

Advocates the abandonment by teachers of some of their traditional viewpoints (historical and cultural), goals, and methods and, through the use of technology in some cases, proposes developing closer ties to the children and the community of which they are a part. (SF)

Describing and defining bilingual-bicultural education, this brief publication is written to encourage the development of Canada Native Bilingual-Bicultural education programs. Specifically, this publication addresses the following: language needs of native peoples; bilingualism defined (functioning in 2 languages); biculturalism defined…

Recent research studies and texts in composition demonstrate the growing belief that students' difficulties with the writing tasks assigned to them are inextricably linked with their difficulties in handling complex cognitive processes. Through appropriate writing activities, students can be provided with practice in the intellectual functions…

This review of two distinct areas of research--brain research and psycho-epistemology--indicates a possible link between the two which may potentially help to identify an as yet unknown molar trait which could be responsible for divergent opinions regarding teaching and learning theories, and may help to explain differential achievement when these…

Teaching is seen as an integrated and integrative act and the need in teacher education to promote the prospective teacher's ability to synthesize elements of the instructional program into coherent patterns is stressed. The justification for synthesis is presented in four characteristics suggesting essentials of a teacher education program (an…

This paper discusses the structuring of practicum experiences for pre- and inservice early childhood teachers as devised by Oakland University. Covered are the types of practicum experiences and objectives, including: (a) broadening student experiences over a wide range of settings involving or relating to young children--these experiences being…

Active and passive sentences were presented with probable and improbable semantic content to 100 first graders and 100 kindergartners. "Irreversible" sentences were considered improbable. In a design employing syntax, probability, grade, and sex as factors, probability and syntax were found significant both as main effects and in their…