In order to be effective competitors in the marketplace, students must be able to think critically, communicate complex ideas through writing, collaborate with peers, and apply their knowledge of biological science to generate solutions for issues facing society. In this paper we examine the nature of the instructional tools, strategies, and…

Describes a problem-based human biology course for undergraduate nonscience majors. Discusses the nature of problem-based learning, effectiveness of problem-based learning in a nonmajors' science course, course development, and implications. Contains 14 references. (JRH)

Discusses the dilemma case, a well-known method of case instruction in which a protagonist is thrust into the middle of a crisis and must make a decision. Enables students to gain an understanding of the issues and then suggest possible solutions to the dilemma. Develops students' critical-thinking skills and speaking abilities. (JRH)

Describes a course that uses current environmental quandaries to teach students how to think, analyze, research, question, argue, evaluate, write, and solve problems. Develops skills required for active, project-oriented learning and covers principles of critical thinking and rudimentary risk literacy. (JRH)

Reviews the book "Medical Problem Solving: An Analysis of Clinical Reasoning," a seminal book whose conclusions on problem solving in medical fields are still valid today. Discusses major problem-solving findings of this book, the application of the findings to education, and relating knowledge to problem-solving skills. (JRH)

Describes the use of supplemental instruction in an introductory chemistry course designed for freshman nursing students and explores its impact on student performance and response to the program. Results indicate a positive impact of supplemental instruction and its popularity with students. Contains 22 references. (JRH)

Describes a non-laboratory science course for nonscience majors that actively engages students in a variety of learning activities. Highlights students' positive evaluations of the course. Also describes active learning experiences incorporated into the course. (JRH)

Describes an honors general physics course designed to demonstrate to students that physics is vital to their understanding of physiology, medicine, the human body, rehabilitation, and other health fields. Presents evidence that indicates that active group learning and connections to real-world applications help students learn physics and apply…

Points out that college freshmen expect major changes in the academic environment as they move from secondary school. Recommends that faculty use this opportunity to show students how to think for themselves. (DDR)

Provides guidance and some guidelines for those trying to gain support for classroom innovations. Includes a chart of some influencing strategies and research-based accounts of some methods that can be employed to garner support. (DDR)