Presents a rationale and an outline for a student research project on urban problems. Procedures include observation and analysis of a contemporary problem (e.g., ethnic relations, crime, recreation, or transportation); field work incorporating pictures, slides, or films; and production of a film-tape documentary pertaining to the problem. (DR)

Illustrates the importance of students knowing how to effectively search electronic resources. Discusses a Web site created at Chico High School and describes the three major components of the organization of electronic resources (outreach, training, and planning interview). Gives an example of a class research assignment and discusses other…

Explains the nature of the Advanced Astronomy Camp (AAC), which is held at an observatory at the University of Arizona. For one week, students are immersed in doing science and engineering, using modern astronomical equipment under the guidance of scientists and graduate students. (DDR)

"Mental modeling" refers to a student's ability to visualize or comprehend the information research process. This article reviews 50 years of changing conceptions of how we learn: behaviorist, cognitivist, and constructivist perspective; describes the application of three "mental models" to interactive technology; and discusses…

To capitalize on the thoughtful use of resources and technology, students should be taught how to allocate time to different stages of the research process. Examines the research process; discusses intrinsic and extrinsic motivation; and suggests teachers make engaging assignments, provide time for synthesizing, and encourage thinking rather than…

Compares results of two projects in which high school students manipulated computer models of physical systems derived from current science research. Topics include modeling in science research and modeling in student research, computer modeling and observation/experiment, internal structure of the model and predictions of the model, student…

Demonstrates how alphabet books for upper elementary and middle school readers may be incorporated in instruction. Shares titles of alphabet books for older readers and activities for applying these books in the areas of reading comprehension, vocabulary, self-interest, research, and poetry. (RS)

Focuses on analyzing undergraduate students' information needs in terms of conceptual understanding of the topic they propose to study and its consequences for the search process and outcome. Highlights include the ASK (anomalous states of knowledge) hypothesis; subject knowledge and searching; Kuhlthau's model; conceptual structure; knowledge…

Describes a class assignment that was used in a social psychology course in which students worked in groups of three and produced a 15-20 minute presentation about a prominent social psychologist. Evaluates the reactions of the students to the assignment. (CMK)

A student staff inquiry project in one university's department of health education assessed the motivation and satisfaction of student staff and peer educators. Students created interview tools, collected and analyzed data, and developed recommendations. Through this student-driven process, several themes emerged (the need for more department…

This study assessed the influence of emphasizing historical investigation with fifth graders through documentation of classroom activities and students' analysis of historical documents and images before and after the design experiment. Data suggested that the investigative approach holds promise for teaching fifth graders how to analyze…

Describes the Developing Scholars Mentor Program in the College of Education at the University of North Texas, designed to build relationships between undergraduate student researchers and faculty mentors. (EV)

Describes the Research Assistance Program that was developed for African American undergraduates to improve their library research skills. Topics include cognitive style of African American students; and skill objectives, including formulating a research topic, effective search strategies, discernment and source equivalence, and information…

Reviews the Big6 information problem-solving model. Highlights include benefits and dangers of the simplicity of the model; theories of instruction; testing of the model; the model as a process for completing research projects; and advice for school library media specialists considering use of the model. (LRW)

Discusses how research comes alive when students explore a range of alternate genres instead of writing the traditional research report. Notes that multigenre writing helps most students grow as researchers, thinkers, and writers while they develop a fundamental understanding of the different purposes for which text can be used. (SG)