Describes a course (Introduction to Numerical Techniques of Physics) which can be adapted to such courses as applied mathematics, numerical analysis, mechanical or electrical engineering, chemistry, and biomathematics. Course goals (including emphasis on the distinction between computing, programming and coding) and instructional strategies are…

Because a teacher and a student were seated on either end of a log (facing each other), there was direct, eye-to-eye, one-on-one communication. If properly used, computers can take the place of the log, establishing the eye-to-eye, one-on-one, two-way communication. Advantages occur because computers are interactive, individualized, modular, and…

The use of simple materials to illustrate complex biological concepts provides benefits to all students, particularly the visually handicapped. A list of materials needed and discussion of procedures used are given for (1) a nucleosome simulation and (2) a supercoiled model of condensed DNA. (DH)

Describes the nature and use of a "strategy", an organized approach that breaks down the overall mental task of problem-solving into stages, providing details of the McMaster Six-Step Strategy. Also provides instructions for working through a Whimby pair series of problems and the Schoenfeld management approach. (JN)

Science as a Way of Knowing is a project being developed by the American Society of Zoologists' education committee. The project, co-sponsored by several professional organizations, seeks to increase the effectiveness of college-level biology. A report on the project's goals, symposia, publications, reprints, and sponsorship needs is presented.…

Describes the priorities and programs supported by the new assistant director for science and engineering education at the National Science Foundation (NSF). Collaboration among academic institutions and the private sector, teacher training efforts, and scientist/engineer professional involvement are stressed. (DH)

Discusses issues related to the physics concepts/topics needed by health professionals, suggesting that medical students can better understand how the body works by completing meaningful physics courses. Also addresses related concerns expressed by medical students and faculty. A list of 41 physics topics cross-referenced to medical topics is…

Describes a Hebrew University program for academically disadvantaged students, focusing on a workshop component which emphasizes learning skills and study strategies. An evaluation of the workshop indicates that it leads to improved achievement in several academic fields (including the natural sciences). (DH)

Outlines activities and goals of the Iowa Lakes Community College club, along with strategies for achieving these goals. Also discusses several benefits which result from club membership, including the development of problem-solving skills and involvement with successful club projects. (DH)

Suggests that a literature survey can alert students to real-life ethical problems surrounding many organic compounds. Topic areas students could explore include: hazards in the workplace, toxic chemicals, and nerve gas structures. Background information and an extensive bibliography are given. (DH)

Explains an experiment in which the rotation of a patch of skin on a tadpole results in a frog with rotated spots, proving that the spot pattern is determined long before it becomes visible. Procedures used are included. (DH)

Outlines an activity in which students clarify choices among personal and ecological values. Variables (including concerns of the natural environment and personal income) are rated from high to low within a total constraint set by the instructor. Uses of the activity in a college geology course for nonscience majors are discussed. (DH)

Discusses modifications and special equipment needed by wheelchair-bound students for 33 common freshman physics experiments. Physical adjustments, individual needs, and personnel are addressed, with emphasis on building a rapport to learn what a student can and cannot do. A list of modifications for specific experiments (by topic) is included.…

A "colloqution module" (an instructional unit/strategy used in a conversation) consists of a reading assignment and a series of questions/activities. The strategy is suggested as an alternative to the lecture method. A sample module on insecticides (together with design information and advantages/disadvantages) is included. (DH)

Conclusions from Project Synthesis (analysis of National Science Foundation programs of 1960-70s and results of three National Assessment of Educational Progress data) are presented. Implications for college science teaching include the need for high motivation materials for nonscience majors, government support for inservice training and…