College students identified air quality, world hunger, and war technology as the most important of 12 global problems (presented to them during a survey) and indicated that problems will become worse by the year 2000. Implications of findings for curriculum and instruction are addressed. (JN)

Discusses the rationale for and use of minilabs (requiring from 15 to 90 minutes to complete) for freshmen chemistry experiments. Provides several examples, advantages for students and instructors, and results of a questionnaire evaluation completed by 83 students. (JN)

By using a computer program to identify bacteria, students sharpen their analytical skills and gain familiarity with procedures used in laboratories outside the university. Although it is ideal for identifying a bacterium, the program can be adapted to many other disciplines. (Author)

Describes a seminar which was used to generate interest in science teaching as a career. The seminar (taught one week for a semester) includes lectures, discussions, and various types of activities. (JN)

Describes a course (with a framework loosely based on the environmental impact statement) in which students learn research methods as they cooperate in interdisciplinary field research projects. Includes a rationale for the course, a generalized outline of field experiences, and examples of student projects (both on-campus briefings and field site…

Immediately following a lecture discussion on early hominid characteristics and behavior, students participate in a laboratory study of bipedal locomotion based on an analysis of footprints. The development and use of this simulation are described. (JN)

Discusses the purpose, scope, conduct, and potential products of a United States study of education in Japan. The study will investigate the formal and informal means of education in Japan within its societal context to develop a series of insights for the improvement of U.S. education. (JN)

Describes various resources for teaching problem-solving. They include: (1) several books with a problem-solving emphasis; (2) a workshop focusing on the attitudinal components of thinking and problem-solving; and (3) a summary of a study dealing with problem-solving in the context of high school physics. (JN)

Advocates that reflection and discussion about the limits of science should be a component of science instruction. Cites examples of the limitations of science and includes suggestions for teaching science while recognizing its boundaries. (ML)

Describes a field-based course for science teachers which focuses on Appalachian geology. Provides an overview of the course's objectives, organization, itinerary, and requirements and describes an evaluative study of the program. Also includes a rationale for field instruction. (ML)

Provides a course description of a geology/ecology program for nonscience students based in the Canadian Rockies. Reviews on-campus preparations and includes samples of discussion topics and essay questions used during the trip. Student evaluation responses are also presented. (ML)

Highlights the value and need for instruction in logic in the sciences. Describes a geology course for nonmajors which incorporates elements of logic. Explains how principles were identified and how materials and activities were developed for the course. (ML)

Offers perspectives on the placement and value of statistical studies in science education. Cites examples from the field of chemical education that address evaluation concerns and problems. Points out factors to consider and questions to ask in reviewing research studies. (ML)

Addresses the principles and problems associated with the use of significant figures. Explains uncertainty, the meaning of significant figures, the Simple Rule, the Three Rule, and the 1-5 Rule. Also provides examples of the Rules. (ML)

Describes a laboratory experiment which focuses on the importance of water in germination and seedling emergence. Discusses the activity's design, expected results, and possible application. Offers suggestions for extending the experiment. (ML)