Through projects established with funds from the National Development Programme in Computer Assisted Learning, about 20 science and engineering departments in institutions of higher education are developing the use of Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) in Great Britain. The purposes and processes of CAL exercises in science education are discussed.…

Discusses the laboratory portion of a beginning noncalculus physics course that uses concrete examples of abstract concepts. Describes the use of coffee cans to explain oscillations and plastic darts to illustrate collisions. (MLH)

Describes a laboratory experiment for secondary school chemistry students utilizing the classic reaction between the iron(III) ion and the thiocyanate ion. The experiment also works very well in other chemistry courses as an experience in spectrophotometric analysis. (PVD)

Presents a collaborative learning exercise intended to teach the unfamiliar terminology of experimental design both in biology classes and biochemistry laboratories. The exercise promotes discussion and debate, develops communication skills, and emphasizes peer review. The effectiveness of the exercise is supported by student surveys. (SOE)

Presents a real life shark attack story and studies arm reattachment surgery to teach human anatomy. Discusses how knowledge of anatomy can be put to use in the real world and how the arm functions. Includes teaching notes and suggestions for classroom management. (YDS)

Describes a sea-water analysis project that introduces qualitative and quantitative analysis methods and laboratory methods such as gravimetric analysis, potentiometric titration, ion-selective electrodes, and the use of calibration curves. Uses a problem-based cooperative teaching approach. (Contains 24 references.) (YDS)

The effectiveness of a demonstration-data interpretation exercise was evaluated with first year medical students (N=124) at the University of Malaya. Results suggested that the exercise achieved more effective short-term learning than conventional laboratory exercises, but a need was found for materials to help students link theory to practical…

Discusses a laboratory course to familiarize mechanical engineering students in the use of electronics and computers. Describes the objectives, laboratory facilities, lecture topics, projects, and laboratory exercises for the course. (YP)

Describes a hands-on activity of contour mapping for grade nine students. Provides an extension activity and four references. Presents a laboratory activity sheet containing materials, responsibilities of group members, introduction, objectives, procedures, and questions. (YP)

Describes an experiment relating to fossil populations and using snails. Presented are the procedures and questions for the experiment. Provides four topics for additional study. (YP)

Summarizes the quantitative relationships pertaining to the operation of electrochemical cells. Energy conversion efficiency, cycle efficiency, battery power, and energy/power density of two types of zinc-silver oxide cells are discussed. (YP)

Describes an experiment for advanced-level undergraduate students for extending student experiences involving recording and interpreting infrared (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra from reactions of organometallic compounds. Experimental procedures, analyses and structural assignments, and suggestions for extension and modification…

Discusses the need for laboratory demonstrations prior to experimentation. Describes an introductory computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM) course and includes suggestions for teachers. Provides a model exercise on train control. (YP)

Reviews three videotapes for physics teachers: (1) "Determination of the Newtonian Constant of Gravitation" showing the Cavendish experiment; (2) "Preview Film for RAM-Tutor Media" introducing a series of seven videocassettes covering physics; and (3) "Determination of the Velocity of Light" using a rotating mirror. (YP)

Describes three activities: "Solar Approach to Ohm's Law," dealing with the Ohm's law and the inverse square law; "Using LED's to Demonstrate Induced Current," showing Faraday's law and Lenz's law by using light emitting diodes (LEDs); and "The Helium-Filled Organ Pipe," discussing a discrepancy between theory and experiment. (YP)