Promotes the use of machine-scored tests in basic engineering science classes. Discusses some principles and practices of machine-scored testing. Provides several example test items. Argues that such tests can be used to enhance basic understanding of concepts and problem solving skills. (TW)

Describes an experimental program begun in Virginia which utilizes instructional television systems to provide part-time engineering instruction for employees of nearby industry and government laboratories. Presents data collected comparing on-campus and "television students." Discusses the results of student course evaluations and ways…

Reports on a study designed to describe the extent to which practicing engineers participate in formal and informal learning activities. Suggests that informal methods are used more often than formal methods. Discusses these informal methods and suggests that educators give them more recognition. (TW)

Provides a review of four science software programs. Includes topics such as plate tectonics, laboratory experiment simulations, the human body, and light and temperature. Contains information on ordering and reviewers' comments. (ML)

Reports on a study that examined the differential effectiveness of traditional and discovery methods of chemistry instruction in Zambia. Compared were the teaching of science concepts, understandings about science, and scientific attitudes to learners at the concrete and formal levels of cognitive development. (TW)

Provides an overview of the objectives, topics discussed, and needs identified at a workshop for physiologists of the Third World. Reviews the problems involved in the teaching of physiology in the Third World, especially in Africa. Offers specific recommendations for future workshops. (ML)

Discusses a study which assessed the effect of a brief kinematics unit on: (1) students' ability to translate between a physical event and the graphic representation of it, and; (2) the effect of real-time on graphing skills. Reports the success of the use of a microcomputer-based laboratory with graphing velocity and distance. (ML)

Examines (1) how students evaluate information obtained in the science laboratory; (2) the effects of use of microcomputer-based laboratory; and, (3) the effects of explicit instruction on critical evaluation skills. Discusses results in terms of students' propensity to accept incorrect graphs and in terms of the effect of the enhanced instruction…

This study describes grade 12 students in Israel (N=2277) and examines the relationships between certain background variables and student achievement in science. Discusses findings related to achievement and the variables of gender, major field of study, home background, school-related practices, prior studies, and future intentions. (ML)

Explains the approach taken at Colorado State University in a collegewide undergraduate computer-aided design (CAD) course. Reviews the topic areas covered, project requirements, and assesses the use of high-performance graphics devices. (ML)

Identifies specific science skill activities and discusses how they can be enhanced using the microcomputer in a laboratory setting. Highlights the benefits, advantages, and applications of microcomputers in physics laboratories. (ML)

Describes a course offered at Tufts University (Massachusetts) to engineering students entitled "Technology as Culture," which attempts to show that technology is a strong determinant of social structure and a prime factor in causing cultural change. Includes an outline of the four-part lecture schedule. (TW)

Differentiates among science, engineering, design, and technology. Examines recent recommendations that accreditation criteria for engineering science and engineering design be changed. Provides five guidelines for the development of design experiences which would permeate the entire chemical engineering curriculum. (TW)

Presents a wildlife and landscape management plan that was developed for the British College of Agriculture farm. Discusses the economic value and the educational value of wildlife plans. Proposes that such wildlife conservation plans be developed for other farmlands in Great Britain. (TW)

Argues that most teachers do not understand the nature of human memory. Presents an informal introduction to human memory, including information on long-term retention, prior knowledge, retrieval, and cues. States that instructors can design memory-compatible instruction that makes recording and retrieval of new knowledge easier. (TW)