Provides examples of animals in which growth occurs without cell division. Indicates that this phenomenon (called cell constancy or eutely) is an oddity of development that has arisen independently in several animal groups. (JN)

Discusses stages in the evolution of educational software and changes in general and specific software characteristics. Also discusses future developments in educational software and hardware, suggesting the development of a new area in educational and cognitive psychology centering on computers in education. (JN)

Discusses three main aspects of developing effective computer-assisted-instruction (CAI) materials. These include beginning with a complete model of teaching, including certain minimum components and characteristics in a lesson, and evaluating and revising a lesson until it is successful. (JN)

Examines possible benefits when Ausubelian learning approaches are integrated into computer-assisted instruction, presenting an example of this integration in a computer program dealing with introductory ecology concepts. The four program parts (tutorial, interactive concept mapping, simulations, and vee-mapping) are described. (JN)

Advantages of computerized data acquisition and three approaches to data collection are discussed. Interfacing techniques and use of microcomputers as physiological recorders are also discussed. Examples of computerized data acquisition are provided. These include computer monitoring of animal activity and collecting data from species distribution…

Describes eight steps in producing computer-assisted-instruction materials. They include selecting a topic, selecting approach to the topic, researching the topic, obtaining a programmer, writing problem definition, soliciting evaluation, field testing, preparing documentation, and monitoring efforts during program production. Also describes a…

Describes an attempt to facilitate the learning of biology by students with poor reading skills through the integration of computer-assisted-instruction with a classical audio-tutorial biology course. Results indicate that performance of poor readers can be improved when they are provided with updated advisement information about their achievement…

Discusses several aspects of software evaluation, suggesting that software should fit into an existing course and that students and faculty colleagues should be involved in the evaluation process. Also provides sources of evaluation guides, actual educational software evaluations, and software awareness materials. (JN)

Describes a test writing program for a 48K memory Apple microcomputer with lower-case capability. The program permits the production of any number of different tests and also different forms of the same multiple-choice or essay test. (JN)

Documentation and complete listing are provided for an Apple computer program designed to assist students in reviewing biology course content. All questions and answers are contained in data statements which are read into two separate question/answer arrays. (JN)

Instructor's opinion, student questionnaires, differences in mean test scores of computer and noncomputer classes, and differences in performance on written class tests between users and nonusers of computer tests were analyzed to investigate whether learning improved with computerized tests. Suggestions on how teachers might make use of…

Discusses microbial production of methane from biomass. Topics include methogens (bacteria producing methane), ecology of methanogenesis, methanogenesis in ruminant/nonruminant and other environments, role of methanogenesis in nature, and methane production in sewage treatment plants. Also discusses construction of methane digesters (and related…

Characteristics of the archaebacteria (comprising the methanogenic, thermoacidophilic, and extreme halophilic bacteria) are discussed, including comparisons of molecular traits for archaebacteria, eubacteria, eukaryotes, and taxonomic considerations. Issues related to integrating the archaebacteria into biology curricula and teaching about the…

Physical, chemical, and biological effects on macrophytes (aquatic plants) on the freshwater ecosystem are discussed. Research questions and issues related to these organisms are also discussed, including adaptations for survival in a wet environment, ecological consequences of large-scale macrophyte eradication, seasonal changes in plant…

Using the biochemical record to class archaebacteria, eukaryotes, and eubacteria involves abstractions difficult for the concrete learner. Therefore, a method is provided in which students discover some basic tenets of biochemical classification and apply them in a "hands-on" classification problem. The method involves use of RNA sequencing. (JN)