Suggesting, from the results of an information study, that a dichotomy exists between learning physics and passing physics courses, explores the consequences of the dichotomy for standard lecture format and Personalized System of Instruction courses. Includes discussions of student responses to problem-solving approaches, textbook study, and…

Discusses science/society interface and difficulties involved in developing realistic science indicators. Topics include: intrinsic vs. extrinsic indicators; four problems society faces as a result of technological activities (toxic chemicals, radioactive wastes, auto safety, cancer); research and development (R&D) priorities; international…

Implications for learning and science instruction are discussed based on the interview-about-instances technique which identified five patterns of student (7-20 year olds) understandings of the concept of force. (SK)

Describes research focusing on factors that might predict success in a Basic Science Skills course for preservice elementary teachers (N=113). (DS)

Describes phase transition in solids and shows how soap films can be used to demonstrate this phenomenon. (Author/SK)

Presents results of a selective survey of schools using individualized instruction (II) in Great Britain and a detailed description of a particular II self-study zoology course at University College, Cardiff. (CS)

Described is Xavier University of Louisiana Piagetian-based general chemistry program. Laboratory experiments are in the learning cycle format and place emphasis on learning by doing. Aspects of the curriculum described include synopses of content covered, laboratory-preceding lectures, list of laboratory experiments covered, and evaluation of the…

Describes a number of laboratory experiments using woodlice as experimental animals. Includes topics such as physiology of water relations, behavior, and rhythmic activity. (CS)

Describes methods for collection, culture, observation, and making permanent stained preparations of the protozoan vorticella. Suggestions are made for experiments to investigate growth, reproduction, settlement, ecology, feeding, and osmoregulation. (CS)

Describes the preparation of selected aldehydes and ketones, alcohols, amines, phenols, haloalkanes, and tertiaryamines by differential scanning calorimetry. Technique is advantageous because formation of the reaction product occurs and the melting point of the product is obtained on the same sample in a short time with no additional purification…

Describes a study to determine (1) if introductory biology students (N=417) could master ecological concepts and improve their attitudes toward their immediate surroundings using a new unit, and (2) the best instructional format, with lecture materials brought inside or individualized instruction in the field via an audio-tutorial format.…

Describes a series of laboratory experiments and computer simulations of the motion of electrons in electric and magnetic fields. These experiments, which involve an inexpensive student-built electron gun, study the electron mean free path, magnetic focusing, and other aspects. (Author/HM)

Discusses the change from 1964 to 1978 in the trend of chemistry majors who have pursued advanced degrees, which shows that smarter students have chosen medical school instead of chemistry. (HM)

Investigates the misconceptions in physics among South African students. The physics test which was administered to selected high school and college students is included. (HM)

Describes a program developed to expose college chemistry students to some of the more modern information retrieval tools, as computerized online databases. Following classroom lectures and discussions, students individually develop a search statement relevant to their own research needs and run it in the Chemical Abstracts files. (BT)