Argues for a reworked pedagogy in the networked computer classroom to counteract the emergence of prejudicial attitudes which marginalize people in online discussions. Encourages interventionist strategies such as centralizing discussion and giving preparatory lectures. Proposes that instructors should be more accountable for confronting and…

Discusses the accomplishments of a model program characterized by an intense training program, an active network among teachers, and a learning-friendly laboratory classroom. (DDR)

Describes the use of an inexpensive device consisting of a plastic soda bottle and a modified plastic cap in a range of demonstrations and experimental activities having to do with the behavior of gases. (Author/WRM)

Examines the role of practical activities in secondary science from an international perspective and contrasts this to a developing country's perspective. Discusses research studies on training teachers to include physics practical work in Indonesia and the benefits and constraints of implementing practical work in physics classrooms. Contains 37…

Offers seven brief descriptions of class projects and assignments used successfully in writing classes of all sorts, from first-year composition classes to business communication to computerized writing labs. (SR)

Offers an analysis of the ways in which the structure and practice of writing centers may be uncomfortable, difficult, even anathema to many boys and young men. Describes ways the author's writing center at a boys' school has changed some of its practices in an attempt to address this issue. (SR)

For a two-year period, 32 secondary students gifted in the areas of mathematics and science participated in a curriculum which incorporated higher-level thinking skills and more real-life laboratory experiences into mutually reinforcing mathematics and science lessons. After the program, participants scored higher on mathematics and science…

Describes a freshman biology laboratory project that uses the polymerase chain reaction to introduce students to the interrelationship between biology and chemistry. Students must develop their own experimental protocol, perform calculations introduced in freshman classes, and evaluate group dynamics. (Author/WRM)

Provides an anthology of references to descriptions of analytical chemistry techniques from history, popular fiction, and film which can be used to capture student interest and frame discussions of chemical techniques. (WRM)

Presents an active-learning technique in which students design their studies that was found to be successful in an animal behavior laboratory course. Divides the laboratory course into three components: (1) structured and technique-oriented exercises; (2) open-ended and student-designed investigations; and (3) independent projects. Explains…

The Inuit subsist on a diet of virtually all meat and fat yet avoid deficiency and heart diseases. Explains this paradox and discusses cultural and geographic influences on diet. The Inuit diet is compared with a typical American diet and the diet recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in a laboratory exercise that measures dietary fat.…

Explains how peer review is incorporated into the undergraduate research lab as part of an ongoing effort to develop the oral and written communication skills of chemical engineering undergraduates. (DDR)

Analyses the ways in which university-entrant science students carry out and communicate experimental activities, and identifies a model to explain characteristic communication practices. Observes the investigative strategies of participant students who have a lack of experience with laboratory work and scientific writing. Uses laboratory reports…

Considers the extent to which educational computer programs can affect educational results and what their usefulness is in the process of learning physics. Presents experimental research concerning the dependence of the level of students' cognitive activity in learning physics with computer programs, particularly learning by doing in the…

Describes a laboratory-based program in physics designed to help students build effective links between the mathematical equations used to solve problems in mechanics and the real world of moving objects. Conducts the study among senior college students and points out the value of laboratory work in science education for development of thinking…