Argues for an approach to undergraduate instruction that incorporates recent research concerning schema theory (the continual cognitive restructuring and processing of information). Recommends beginning with fundamental skills and building on these to include more complex concepts and processes. Includes an illustrative example beginning with…

Recounts a criminology class exercise that consisted of staging a mock trial using the murders from Truman Capote's "In Cold Blood" as source material. Students research the case and role play various lawyers, jury members, and witnesses. Identifies and discusses four educational objectives attainable through the staging of mock trials. (MJP)

Demonstrates the usefulness of classroom assessment in reducing the number of underprepared students. Recommends that faculty use classroom assessment techniques very early in the semester to determine students' knowledge level. Maintains that a vast dichotomy exists between teachers' assumptions regarding students' knowledge and what they…

Describes a final assignment in an introductory sociology course that helps students apply their sociological knowledge. Students choose a book or movie, provide a plot summary, analyze it using a minimum number of sociological terms gathered from different chapters or topic areas, and provide a brief conclusion. (MJP)

Charts the forces changing undergraduate sociology education and attempts to define the future nature of the discipline. Visualizes a discipline that is more practical and problem centered, marketing itself as a proactive tool for understanding changing social systems. Recommends experiential and active learning utilizing new technology. (MJP)

Reports on a statistics course designed to emphasize real-world applications. The course is primarily lab-based and provides students with numerous opportunities to demonstrate mastery of their skills. The instruction is tightly focused on achievable goals and utilizes hands-on experience and computer tutorials. (MJP)

Reviews a teaching strategy built on the body of research revealing crossword puzzles as effective means of introducing fundamental concepts and vocabulary. Discusses methods for constructing the puzzle. Student responses suggest that the puzzle was useful as a tool for both learning and review. (MJP)

Asserts that, although many researchers and teachers have written about the use of cooperative, or collaborative, learning groups, their work has focused on small classes. Reports on a study of informal cooperative group assignments used in a large (225 students) college-level Introduction to Sociology class. (CFR)