The existing literature on indicators of an optimal learning environment for high-ability students frequently discusses the concept of challenge. It is, however, not clear what, precisely, constitutes appropriate challenge for these students. In this study, the authors examined an undergraduate honours course, Advanced Cell Biology, which has…

Possible ways of developing skills required for effective teaching of independent study and small group instruction are considered. A short series of faculty development courses is reported, and seven main issues in skill development are listed, including structuring and evaluating independent work and integrating other teaching methods. (MSE)

Issues and problems encountered in teaching a university faculty development course are discussed. The course focused on sustained reflection and classroom research as a means for improving instruction. Issues include the challenge of addressing each teacher's needs and transforming course learning and shared experience into better classroom…

A survey of business administration faculty in 15 British institutions revealed teachers felt their institutions undervalued teaching of part-time students and were enthusiastic about classroom practice. Problems were found in academic freedom, accommodating part-time schedules, and dissonance between school and work among both faculty and…

A study of a course for matriculating adult students looks at the course structure, student numbers and characteristics, withdrawals and dropouts, final degree results, and the problems encountered by adult students. (MSE)

The need to change higher education to respond to the demands for continuing education is discussed, and the contributions of three groups to the facilitation of learning through learning-centered and problem-based curriculum design are examined. (MSE)

A science course is described in which students worked in moderately self-paced groups in a learning center with all the necessary resources on hand. Course objectives and organization are outlined and an evaluation of the course is presented that includes student reactions, staff opinions, and examination and project results. (Author/JMD)

A University of Salford (England) course in business administration contains a business start-up simulation project on which students work in teams. A description of the course looks at the objectives and methods used, team selection, choice of venture, support provided, assessment activities, course modifications made over time, and outcomes.…

Results of an annual study of student opinions of courses at the London School of Economics and Political Science (England) show variations in level of satisfaction with a single teacher, even within the same course, according to teaching method. Predictors of these variations are examined, including teacher, course, and student characteristics.…

The planning of continuing medical education (CME) for general practitioners in the province of Limburg is outlined, including a survey of practitioners concerning their educational needs, a followup study to an intensive CME course, and an outline of a new curriculum approach. (MSE)

A study investigated perceptions of National University of Singapore faculty (n=18) and students (n=151) in psychology, building, and estate management of the importance of specific educational objectives and the effectiveness of teaching methods in meeting them. Results indicate discrepancies between faculty and student attitudes and some…