The case presented in this article is an exploration of the process of natural selection using white clover ("Trifolium repens") as an example. In general, two forms of white clover can be found around the world in various habitats. One type has plain green leaves and the other type produces cyanide as a defense against herbivores and signals the…

This article provides some tips for success in facilitating teamwork. Working collaboratively is common in science and the functioning of teams has a large impact on both the implementation of a research project and student satisfaction with the experience. The strategies are divided into what can be done to minimize problems from the start and…

The process of protein synthesis, translation, is difficult for many students to understand. There are two reasons for this: (1) It is difficult to visualize the process, since the components involved in the process are not observable, and (2) There are many details, often dependent on each other and difficult to grasp independently, that are…

Demonstrations are sometimes perceived as merely entertaining and expendable ancillaries for lectures and laboratory sessions. Nothing can be further from the truth. If done properly, demonstrations have much more value than lectures and labs when used to teach critical thinking in the sciences. There are effective ways to model scientific…

A wonderful way to engage science students is to make them think a demonstration is not turning out the way the instructor intended. Basically, throw a little humor into teaching, and they will be hooked. Described in this article is a demonstration that uses Milk of Magnesia (MOM) as a visual and humorous method to review equilibrium chemistry…

Describes the importance of statistical reasoning in understanding modern science and critically evaluating information. Uses spreadsheet programs and the black box approach to teach basic concepts of statistical reasoning. Presents examples of the role of statistical thinking in the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, and geology.…

Describes a college course enhanced by hands-on science applications and a service-learning project. Requires registered students to participate in volunteer training at a nature center and offers certification in several environmental education curricula. Reports successful outcomes with regard to conceptual development and teaching experiences.…

Discusses the use of the lecture format as a teaching method in college classes and presents 10 research-based ideas. Outlines four main components of an effective lecture using concrete examples from actual college science lectures. (Author/YDS)

Describes a case study approach in science education incorporated into a senior seminar course in which students first provide background information to familiarize the audience with the topic, then present a case study and facilitate classroom discussion. (YDS)

Integrates concept mapping into the chemistry laboratory and requires students to construct a concept map for each experiment. Reports a decrease in student questions concerning set up and procedure. Recommends using computer software such as Chem Sketch 5.0 which is free and available from the Internet. (Contains 15 references.) (YDS)

Reviews the origin of problem based learning (PBL) and variations of PBL. Suggests that PBL is simply one way of case study learning. (Author/KHR)

Explores the results of a study that involved qualitative analysis of students' reactions to a long-term inquiry experience in a freshman biology course. (DDR)

Discusses the importance of a course that teaches about the biology of women. Focuses on the interplay between the biological and social issues in the course. (DDR)

Describes a team-taught science writing course that includes a series of assignments aimed at specific real-life audiences and designed for different venues. Includes details of the assignments. (DDR)

Describes the implementation and assessment of a service learning project involving an earth science fair. Points out that service learning provides a novel learning experience. (DDR)