Data sharing among multiple lab sections increases statistical power of data analyses and informs student-generated hypotheses. We describe how to collect, organize, and manage data to support replicate and rolling inquiry models, with three illustrative examples of activities from a population-level biology course for science majors. (Contains 1…

A single-semester elective combines Mendelian and molecular genetics in a problem-solving format. Students encounter a genetic disease scenario, construct a family pedigree, and try to confirm their medical diagnoses through laboratory experiences. Encouraged to generate ideas as they test their hypotheses, students realize the importance of data…

Increasingly, national stakeholders express concern that U.S. college graduates cannot adequately solve problems and think critically. As a set of cognitive abilities, critical thinking skills provide students with tangible academic, personal, and professional benefits that may ultimately address these concerns. As an instructional method, writing…

Perspectives on the conditions of academic research facilities and the various funding mechanisms proposed for modernizing them are offered in this report on the University Research Facilities Revitalization Act of l985 (H.R. 2823). Major components of this bill include: (l) the creation of a university and college research laboratory…

This Congressional report deals with the role of government laboratories in regional development and state innovation strategies for encouraging entrepreneurship. Included among those persons providing testimony on these two particular aspects of developing entrepreneurship in the United States were representatives of the following agencies and…

Safety hazards that are frequently found in science classrooms are addressed in this digest which updates and supplements the 1980 ERIC/SMEAC information bulletin "Safety in the Science Classroom." Information obtained from journal articles and safety guides is presented in the categories of: (1) risks involved in science activities; (2)…

Suggestions for instructional improvement are offered to science teachers in this compilation of research summaries which addresses specific areas of science education. This series examines the topic areas of: (1) computer use in science instruction (reviewing five categories of computer use which focus on the learner); (2) the role of the…

The fact sheet presents information on science laboratory and classroom access for disabled persons. Suggestions are directed to the high school and postsecondary student, the instructor, and the administrator. Examples are given of disabled scientists, approaches used in various science settings, and disabled students using adapted equipment.…

This pamphlet offers suggestions for improving laboratory safety. It is based on the notion that having an understanding of inherent hazards and learning how to be safe should be an integral and important part of science education. It is organized into "steps requiring minimal expense" and "steps requiring moderate expense." Included in these…

The current status and frequency of nonmajor biology courses offered in colleges and universities in the United States and Canada were investigated. A random sample of 300 four-year colleges was sent a questionnaire and a request for copies of their syllabi for nonmajor biology courses and other nonmajor science courses. Of the 134 respondents,…

Volume 8, No. 2 of Investigations in Science Education contains critiques of articles dealing with science education research about various aspects of instruction. Also included are five responses from authors of articles to critiques of their work as it has been reported in professional journals. In total, this volume contains 10 critiques and…

General and specific safety procedures and recommendations for secondary school science laboratories are provided in this guide. Areas of concern include: (1) chemicals (storage, disposal, toxicity, unstable and incompatible chemicals); (2) microorganisms; (3) plants; (4) animals; (5) electricity; (6) lasers; (7) rockets; (8) eye safety and…

Public school science instruction, research in science curriculum development, and inservice training for science teachers is planned for one central facility. Concentrated natural science courses using science equipment not ordinarily available in schools will be offered to all pupils, 4th through 12th grade, of Philadelphia area school systems.…

The objective of the Campus Safety Association is to promote safety on college and university campuses by the exchange of information on prevention of accidents to faculty, staff, and students. The annual conference, of several days duration, is a combination of education, training, and discussion of specific problems. This monograph contains the…

Describes Clemson University's Advanced Engineered Fibers Laboratory, which was established to provide national leadership and expertise in developing the processing equipment and advance fibers necessary for the chemical, fiber, and textile industries to enter the composite materials market. Discusses some of the laboratory's activities in…