Compares teaching observational research using a lecture format to using a software program called Courseware for Observational Research (COR). Finds that the COR-instructed class obtained a mean score of 78% on the examination, earned higher grades on the research reports, and rated the usefulness of conducting research more highly than the…

This article discusses the advantages of delivering course content by classroom multimedia rather than by traditional lecture, and describes a three-tiered approach used by Salisbury State University (MD) to motivate and train those faculty willing to adapt presentations for the use of multimedia technology. The method hinges on faculty sharing…

Addresses the issue of teaching students in the U.S. history survey course to read historical works by shifting the focus from the lecture method to collaborative learning techniques. Describes various techniques that can be used in the classroom such as expert groups, Particulars into Generalizations (PIG), and making lists and evaluative…

Investigates undergraduate students' development and sociological learning by comparing two classes of students enrolled in a Race and Ethnic Relations course in which one section utilized service learning and the other was a lecture-discussion course with experiential exercises. Reports that service learning improved student learning in areas…

Large lecture classes can often be quite impersonal. Creating a teaching team, consisting of the instructor, graduate assistants, and a few undergraduates, is one of the ways the University of Arizona has adopted in order to make the large lecture class more personal. As members of the Department of Mathematics we train the undergraduates, who are…

Interactivity in the classroom is reported to promote a more active learning environment, facilitate the building of learning communities, provide greater feedback for lecturers, and help student motivation. Various definitions of interactivity exist in the literature, alternately focusing on the participants, structure and technology. The "PLS…

This paper describes a student essay competition with the title "What makes a good engineering lecturer?" run by the Engineering Subject Centre of the UK Higher Education Academy. The competition was intended primarily to provide engineering lecturers with general feedback. The aim of the paper is to make the outcomes of the competition…

This booklet provides practical tips, techniques, hints, and suggestions developed by and for college teachers. The handbook serves as a useful guide for teachers who wish to improve their performance in the classroom. Specific topics include keeping students' attention and interest, helping students to think, teaching effectively in large group…

Five communication strategies are essential to success in large courses: managing instructor anxiety, using presentation time efficiently, motivating students, communicating enthusiasm, and organizing content. (MLW)

Describes a lecture manual for an introductory soil course, how it is used by students, and how it affects student learning. Students indicated that the manual and its condensed lecture material, exam schedule, and grading procedures were beneficial to their learning in the course. (ML)

Describes an undergraduate automatic controls course in which the teaching-learning process is regarded as a closed loop feedback system. The three basic components of the system: the controller, the plant, and the learning sensors are identified as the teacher, the student, and student feedback respectively. (SMB)

Medical student response to a required sex education course at the University of Texas Medical School is reported. The results suggest that the students have an objective awareness of sexuality as an integral part of medicine, but are reluctant to admit interest and are uncertain where their knowledge will be utilized. (JMD)

Describes a study of Web access for a university chemistry course that investigated how students used Web material for course support after being lectured on the topic. Discusses study strategies, time management, and implications for further research and course design. (Contains 7 references.) (LRW)

Lists common problems associated with teaching large lecture classes and asserts that there are ways to surmount them through innovative teaching techniques. Provides an overview of the introductory American government course at Kent State University, and discusses techniques used in it to provide the benefits of a small seminar course. (DSK)

Presents an alternative to traditional lecturing--Corporate Learning. Discusses problems facing today's teachers and how the program was developed. Outlines CL basics (students as teamed employees and the teacher as CEO), provides a sample lesson plan, links the process to New Jersey's workplace readiness standards, and presents the corporation's…