Presents an experiment to measure the threshold limit of the adhesion of water. Discusses types of thresholds and pseudo thresholds. Provides 13 examples of thresholds in science. (MVL)

Described is a science activity for intermediate grades which uses science skills to solve a mystery. Fingerprints, footprints, chromatography, invisible ink, and microscopic analysis are used in the activity. Observation, data analysis, and deductive reasoning are stressed. (CW)

This article discusses two data analysis methods: (1) Box plot; and (2) Outlier. Described are the procedures for drawing the two diagrams, wing median, quartiles, and highest and lowest values. (YP)

Provided are six ideas for lessons and projects which could be done in secondary school science classes. Topics include alcohol; the relationship between water availability and water loss in plant growth; the effects of acids on teeth; woodlice clustering; the ecology of frogs; and human blood pressure and heart rate. (CW)

Described are the techniques and results of using this tissue culture activity. Discusses the advantages of using such techniques in teaching alternation of generation life cycles to biology students. (CW)

Discusses how engineers will be educated in the twenty-first century, including workstation, teaching methods, teaching materials, and the college system. Describes some of the obstacles, such as small numbers of applicants, aging professors, poor preparation at high school level, and costs. (YP)

Some 122 university-based research and development (R&D) laboratories were examined to evaluate the extent to which they pursue generic/basic research goals. The study focused on structural, behavioral, and environmental variables affecting the nature of R&D products. Organizational characteristics that are most likely to stimulate…

Presents three models that have been effective for teaching chemical equilibrium and Le Chatelier's principle: (1) the liquid transfer model, (2) the fish model, and (3) the teeter-totter model. Explains each model and its relation to Le Chatelier's principle. (MVL)

Some typical teacher concerns about technology education are explored. Answers reflect the belief that implementing technology education does not require entirely new instruction methods. Concerns explored include (1) use of the project method, (2) specialized equipment, (3) problem-solving, (4) needs of special students, and (5) teacher skills.…

Describes a demonstration to show the character and behavior of mixing clouds. Discusses laminar and turbulent flow, and the formation of contrails and other cloud phenomena. (CW)

Instructional engineering principles were applied to development of instruction in dental mirror skills, and the instruction was validated with 92 students and 25 controls. Measurement of skills over a period of a year and mirror usage during the practical exam indicated instructional effectiveness. Mirror skill instructional tasks are described.…

Describes how student learning from a series of laboratory practicals was improved using small group methods and a structured learning cycle that encouraged reflection on group performance and investigative techniques. Discussion includes evaluation of learning benefits by means of written records, a questionnaire, observation, and the role of…

The first step in engineering the instruction of dental psychomotor skills, task analysis, is explained. A chart details the procedural, cognitive, desired-criteria, and desired-performance analysis of a single task, occlusal preparation for amalgam restoration with carious lesion. (MSE)

Provides an overview of the most widely used methods of classroom oral testing, as well as evaluations of their practicality and conformity to the goals of communicative teaching and testing. Also described are ways the video camera and task-based activities have successfully been used to make oral testing a more realistic communicative…

Provides insights on the controversial issue of animal rights. Four factors are considered: (1) animals' rights; (2) research; (3) hunting and fishing; and (4) agriculture. Contends that it is imperative that the public knows all the facts before casting their vote on the issue. (ZWH)