To reduce test anxiety, students were given increased information about the probable question types on end-of-unit examinations. Two experimental testing formats, a combination of the two, and the typical practice of providing no additional information were compared. Results show that additional information can reduce anxiety but not necessarily…

A faculty member's study examined whether teaching strategies about controversial issues of housing are effective in developing public policy competencies and student action. Conclusive evidence was not found, but implications for future research are noted. (Author/MSE)

A study investigated the effectiveness of stereochemistry lap-dissolve projection as an aid to students in developing three-dimensional imaging and whether certain visual orientation tasks could be correlated with aptitude. Students found the slides helpful, and a modest correlation of achievement and visual skills was found. (MSE)

A project to determine student attitudes toward interactive closed-circuit television instruction on two university campuses is described. Course design, results, costs, and implementation difficulties are discussed. Differences between the campuses' responses may be attributable to teacher familiarity, student differences, and familiarity with…

Two problems for academic deans in getting faculty involved in faculty development are motivating teachers and ensuring receptive participation. Active administrator commitment is essential, and participation can be encouraged by laying groundwork carefully, actively promoting concern for good teaching, appointing a department contact person for…

Faculty in a large land-grant university were surveyed about the reward system for teaching and research. Almost half declined to participate, citing their research and writing workloads as hindrances. However, participants were confused about rewards for teaching versus research, and had not yet resolved the conflict in favor of research. (MSE)

A teaching practicum for foreign students who will become teaching assistants is described. Brief lectures, student oral presentations, instruction in the use of audiovisual aids, and videotaping of students are major course components. Course results included increased student self-confidence and a mechanism established for future learning.…

A university English department's writing center uses peer tutors trained in questioning, explanation, and constructive criticism techniques. Among the issues raised are tutoring adult students and writing across the curriculum. The program has been an effective method of encouraging good writing. (MSE)

Colorado State University students in elective history courses were surveyed for their attitudes toward elements of teaching: subject knowledge, relaxed classroom atmosphere, teacher approachability, teacher enjoyment of subject, mechanics of teaching, and delivery of material. The personal dimension was of high priority of students, the mechanics…

A survey of institutions and the literature support the idea that costs affect faculty development, recordkeeping and other costs, and student retention. Systematic approaches to calendar change are recommended including the four-one-four calendar. (MSE)

The oral history and ethnographic interview are two techniques for providing depth and direction for fieldwork experiences. Students use these techniques to enhance interaction with others they encounter in the field, and the methods occasionally change the students' perspectives and enliven later research efforts. (MSE)

A faculty survey at the University of Texas at Dallas showed faculty had no objections to most students' being over 30, did not favor age segregation, found older students better motivated, and felt no need for changes in academic standards. Special training for dealing with adult students is not recommended. (MSE)

An Indiana University at South Bend study examined the needs of nontraditional freshmen by determining difficulty levels of introductory course materials, identifying freshman reading and study skills levels, and providing coursework to increase retention. Results indicate that reading and study skills programs are essential. (MSE)

In answer to why faculty and administrators rely on quantification of faculty performance (i.e., productivity measures), two reasons are given: (1) it is the only evaluation that is persuasive to a democratic audience (the public); and (2) it is better than none at all. (MSE)

Classroom discussion can be valuable in college math and can be enhanced by: adding time in the agenda by not repeating textbook material; welcoming classroom participation; using assignments and exams for in-class interaction; and integrating material from different parts of the course, or different courses, into classroom discussion. (MSE)