This paper argues that separation of mathematics from most other disciplines in the college curriculum reinforces math avoidance among college students, and that this is inappropriate in general education. Ways in which mathematics and mathematical thinking can be integrated into the humanities are discussed, including the role of mathematics in…

A model for teaching proof writing to college mathematics students is presented. The model has six phases: (1) open (understanding the theorem by reading it, listing, and writing it out); (2) brainstorm; (3) instantiate (perception of the chain of inferences linking hypothesis to conclusion); (4) convince; (5) reflect; and (6) extend. Strategies…

A required one-credit discussion course in research ethics for graduate students in biology is described. The course has four parts: (1) overview of major issues; (2) practical issues in scholarly work; (3) ownership of research results; and (4) graduate student training and personal decisions. A list of weekly topics and related readings is also…

Ten suggestions for new college faculty include provide clear instructional goals and a rationale, treat students fairly, allow each an opportunity to talk daily, bring the real world in, use one-to-one conferencing when needed, invite students into the evaluation process, model positive behavior, set reasonable standards, grow professionally, and…

Steps in preparing effective overhead projector transparencies for college instruction are outlined, using the PowerPoint program for Windows. They include thinking analogically in translating from concept to visual form; using the features of the presentation program to create a polished product; and assuring readability (visibility, typeface…

Suggestions for teaching in a multicultural college classroom, based on experiences at American International University (England), include acknowledge and respect individual students' uniqueness; encourage and facilitate self-reflection; clarify institutional goals and objectives without implying that they are "right"; choose materials…

A survey of faculty members (n=74) and undergraduate students (n=242) examined perceived importance of syllabus components. Significant differences were found between faculty and student responses, with students more concerned than faculty with information on test format, length and format of required papers and projects, course withdrawal policy,…

Examined the overall effect of change to a plus/minus grading system on management students and faculty at one public university, using mathematical analysis of grade distribution and a questionnaire. Results indicated that both students and faculty had negative perceptions of the plus/minus system, and that the new system had virtually no effect…

Suggests the subtractive method of sculpting stone as a visual metaphor for framing a proposal for teaching and learning that encourages creation of participatory college classrooms where both logic and imagination are valued. Strategies for promoting an emancipatory classroom climate to encourage creativity include fostering mutual understanding,…

Evaluated an instructional model designed to promote responsibility among college students (n=197). Students were instructed with verbal presentation only, combined verbal and visual presentation, or verbal and visual presentation coupled with student self-monitoring in journal entries. Significantly higher test scores and fewer disruptive…

Argues that new "learning" paradigms are needed to assess new kinds of educational practices. Uses Instruction Model-Learning Model Questionnaire and the Student Evaluation of Teaching Effectiveness to compare traditional vs. interactive teaching methods in a graduate (n=94) public policy analysis course; finds neither effectively measures…

An interview with Wilbert McKeachie, a leading figure in college teaching and learning, focuses on advice for beginning faculty, including the importance of effective testing, mid-term student evaluations of teaching performance, discussion and questioning techniques, cooperative learning, and peer review strategies to improve college students'…

Students (n=222) who had graduated from Rollins College (Florida) 8 to 25 years earlier responded to a request for narratives concerning their most effective and most ineffective professors. Analysis suggested that ineffective professors shared three characteristics: lack of passion for their subject matter, inability to connect students to…

Presents results of focus group interviews conducted with 22 Asian American students at a large Midwestern state university to explore issues related to their experiences inside and outside the classroom, their relationships with instructors and students, the effect of their identity on teaching and learning, learning style preferences, and their…

Examined perceptions about plagiarism, correct source citation, and the evaluation of written assignments containing plagiarized material among 156 college students. Found great variability in students' knowledge/recognition of citation methods and in perceptions about best and fairest way to evaluate plagiarized assignments. Most indicated grades…