One college mathematics teacher finds that asking students to write brief essays about their attitudes toward and experiences with mathematics offers insight into student motivation, perceptions and misperceptions, and emotional responses. The essay serves as a communication and motivational tool for both teacher and students. (MSE)

In the process of strengthening undergraduate mathematics, educators at the American University (District of Columbia) surveyed similar institutions concerning mathematics placement, course requirements, and perceptions of student attitudes. They found common concerns but no obvious solutions. It is concluded that curricular change must be…

The journals of students in introductory college science courses give insight into the bewilderment students feel about science. Problems fall into five categories: semantics; use of symbols; inability to evaluate their own progress; difficulty in assimilating quantities of new knowledge; and cognitive overload. Students should be encouraged to…

A university-educated art historian examines her transition to teaching at a small southern college. Challenges faced included a new clientele of students, the metamorphosis from graduate student to content expert, committee demands and overcommitment, and finding a personal niche. Significant benefits of small-college professional life are also…

A discussion of the liberal arts'"great books," specifically in political philosophy, reflects on the value of the core curriculum, the value of expanding the traditional canon, the use of reading to learn, results of true learning, and the danger of shunning works traditionally seen as important. (MSE)

Techniques for college teachers averting or resolving conflicts with students include examining one's own contribution to the conflict, conferring in a neutral setting, finding common ground, using cooperative learning exercises, avoiding defensiveness, talking with colleagues, integrating problem solving into lessons, and using direct…

A systematic approach to preparation of successful college lectures is outlined, including four stages: anticipation (of content and expectations); preparation (selection, acquisition, design, and construction); execution (attention to speech habits, demeanor, and body language); and support (evaluation, maintenance, and enhancement). (MSE)

A study of nontraditional college students' attitudes identified specific challenges faced in teaching intergenerational groups: discomfort of older students; different orientations toward the professor; older students' role as authorities; differing learning styles; hostility between age groups. Teaching strategies encouraging personal contact,…

In college courses in statistics and computer programing, learning can be enhanced when students are required to express formulas and notations in writing. This approach helps improve concept formation, comprehension, problem solving, and ability to draw conclusions and interpretations. Attention to syntax and form is important. (MSE)

As illustrated in one college world literature course, videotape recording projects that require students to interpret and perform literary works can encourage them to incorporate their new learning with their own experiences. In the process, history becomes more real and literary works become more understandable and relevant. (MSE)

Many ethnic-majority college students have strong emotional reactions to ethnic-American literature and the conflict of social myth with social reality. Teachers can guide students through the seven stages leading from disillusionment to understanding (shock, denial, anger, rejection, examination, understanding, and acceptance) in part by…

A community college business teacher describes his experiences in teaching innercity teenagers the basics of economics and business. The summer course used a television sitcom and participatory activities to explore success, attracting mentors, time management, and related topics. Student formative evaluations gave insight into class management…

The design, implementation, and evaluation of a self-paced course in first-year college French are described, focusing on student choice in deciding which of four language skills (listening/speaking, writing, reading, or culture) they would concentrate on. Considered are course organization, use of assistants and student tutors, and course…

Research suggests several types of test-anxious students. Techniques for lessening anxiety include teaching metacognitive and learning strategies, using cooperative learning activities, and creating a nonthreatening environment. A survey of 102 developmental reading college students indicated that teacher behavior during testing and pretest review…

Techniques developed to improve student participation and student evaluation in a large-group college course in advertising include role playing in talk-show-style discussions of controversial issues, breaks in lectures to play a trivia game, a three-minute writing assignment, teacher movement among students, and changes in testing policies and…