Techniques for applying mathematical concepts in the real world: six rarely taught but crucial tools for analysis, research, and problem-solving. Many young graduates leave school with a solid knowledge of mathematical concepts but struggle to apply these concepts in practice. Real scientific and engineering problems are different from those found…

Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), a technique by which the tools of Boolean algebra are applied to equifinal causal conditions, is gaining popularity amongst scholars. This paper draws upon a distinction largely overlooked by the QCA literature: the difference between inclusive- and exclusive-or (OR and XOR). I argue that XOR should be…

Student-scientist-teacher interactions provide students with several advantages. They provide opportunities to interact with experts and professionals in the field, give students a chance at meeting a role model that may impact students' career choices, and increase awareness of available career options combined with an understanding of how their…

Because scientific understanding of communicating family research to policymakers is incomplete, qualitative interviews were conducted with social scientists experienced in bridging the gulf between research and family policy. In keeping with the tenets of 2 communities and community dissonance theories, the underutilization of research in…

As practitioners have expanded their understanding of the types of events that constitute trauma exposure, the epidemiological database on prevalence suggests that childhood exposure to violence may best be framed as a public health crisis. There seems to be little recognition from policymakers and legislators, however, that violence may be the…

Presents an interview with Dr. Shinya Inoue who helped reinvent the use of light microscopes in the study of cells. (MKR)

Focuses on the philosophical leanings and humanist and spiritual qualities of five Black-American scientists--Banneker, Carver, Just, Latimer, and Julian--for whom there seemed no conflict between science and the humanities. Their writings are commended to contemporary readers for this reason. (DM)

Reports on an interview with John Maynard Smith, one of the most important evolutionary biologists since Darwin. (JRH)

Reviews the history of cartography. Describes the contributions of Strabo and Ptolemy in early maps. Identifies the work of Gerhard Mercator as the most important advancement in mapping. Discusses present mapping standards from history. (CW)

Professional liability is based on breach of duty in violation of a standard of professional care. Information professionals are potentially liable even though none have been sued to date. Precautions and liability insurance are available as possible safeguards. (EM)

Creative thought can be promoted by an attitude of mind, the implications of certain philosophy of science trends notwithstanding. Since such an attitude should obviously be encouraged, various ways of accomplishing this are suggested. (Author/JN)

Discusses recent trends of historiography, particularly efforts to include women and minority groups in U.S. history. Concludes that history that excludes portions of U.S. culture and ignores the experiences of segments of the U.S. population fails to fully explain the American experience to U.S. citizens and others. (CFR)

Read-aloud stories are offered to introduce students to three women scientists: Barbara McClintock, Mary Anning, and Jane Goodall. Resources on these, and other women scientists, are listed. (DF)

Describes a method for identification of gold samples using a laser to vaporize a small sample of the gold. (MKR)

Presents and discusses the essential characteristics of a scientist. (ZWH)