Discusses 10 fundamental ideas that are useful in teaching chemistry at the high school and college levels. Also provides background information, including the role of problem solving. (JN)

Surveyed college teachers about teaching modes, use of instructional aids, conditions relevant to teaching, changes that could optimize teaching, and ways professional organizations can help. Selected results (based on 873 forms returned out of 2,050 mailed-response rate of 43 percent) are presented and discussed. (JN)

Focuses on pseudoscience by: (1) discussing sources of misinformation; (2) presenting results of a survey on students' (N=186) comprehension of scientific topics; (3) discussing implications of these results for science educators; and (4) considering the scientific creationism movement. (JN)

Determined student opinion of the investigative laboratory by surveying both students who had completed an introductory biology course using this format and another group of more advanced students who had taken other courses since this one. Results show that a majority of students feel the format improved their problem-solving skills. (JN)

Approximately 500 nonscience major university chemistry students were surveyed to record their interpretations of specific chemical symbolism before presenting modern concepts of atomic and molecular structure, in an attempt to understand the thought processes entering students use as they interpret symbolism. Results are reported and discussed.…

Discusses the experiences and activities of a six-person team of science educators during their six-week stay in Thailand. Also considers the cultural adjustment, sightseeing excursions, teacher education in Thailand, travel preparations, and other topics. (JN)

Discusses the use of electronic spreadsheets for classroom grading practices, indicating that they add such optional procedures as weighting elements of the grade and determining standard deviation. Instructions for setting up a simple gradebook and a discussion of limitations are included. (JN)

Describes a micromanipulator that is inexpensive, simple to build, rugged, and capable of several modes of operation beyond those of other types. It can, for example, be used with its controls quite remote from the tool holder and microscope or be controlled by computer. (JN)

Biology teachers at Ithaca College have developed a course in experimental methodology and instrumentation that teaches beginning biology students the need for accuracy and precision in measurement. This course is described. (JN)

The use of sodium acetate solution to show supersaturation is a favorite among lecture demonstrations. However, careful adjustment of the solute-to-water ratio must be made to attain the most spectacular effect--complete solidification of the solution. Procedures to accomplish this are provided and discussed. (JN)

Describes a Harvard University program where midcareer professionals are being retrained as high school mathematics and science teachers. Factors contributing to the program's success include changing demographics/requirements in secondary schools and participant's desire to share their science knowledge with young people. The program's links to…

Describes test-tube organic chemistry procedures (using comparatively safe reagents) for the beginning student. These procedures are used to: examine differences between saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons; compare structural isomers; and compare organic and inorganic acids and bases. (DH)

Outlines a course (offered jointly by physics and applied science departments) which focuses on basic physics and nuclear war effects. Due to the emotional impact of issues discussed in the course, faculty implemented a plan which included the use of counseling professionals. (DH)

Suggests using the planetarium as an educational resource for all ages. Discusses various planetarium teaching techniques and planetarium programs (with objectives) at Ball State University. They include programs for school children, college students, and the general public. (DH)

Describes studies at winter bird feeders which enhance instruction of ecology at the University of Michigan biological station. Background material is provided for field activities in which black-capped chickadees are observed and for home range determination and population estimate activities. (DH)