The field of biology education--and other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines more broadly--has witnessed two major shifts in the past decade: (i) the increased awareness of research-based instructional strategies (RBIS) that are beneficial for student learning, and (ii) a recognition of the importance of computing…

Cognitive processes such as learning and thinking are theorized to be an interaction between the mind, body, and environment in four ways: embodied, embedded, enacted, and extended. Collectively, these four types represent the four "E"s of cognition. The "Next Generation Science Standards" has called for curricular reform that…

Because a teacher and a student were seated on either end of a log (facing each other), there was direct, eye-to-eye, one-on-one communication. If properly used, computers can take the place of the log, establishing the eye-to-eye, one-on-one, two-way communication. Advantages occur because computers are interactive, individualized, modular, and…

Microcomputers can record laboratory measurements which human laboratory partners can never collect. Simple, harder, and general-purpose interfaces are discussed, with suggestions for several experiments involving an exercise bike, acceleration, and pendulums. Additional applications with pH meters, spectrophotometers, and chromatographs are also…

Describes a microcomputer program (written for the Apple II+) which can serve as a lecture demonstration aid in explaining genetic transcription and translation. The program provides unemotional information on student errors, thus serving as a review drill to supplement the classroom. Student participation and instructor options are discussed. (DH)

Describes computer grading system providing/storing scores and giving feedback to instructors on how students are performing on a day-to-day basis and how they are handling course concepts. Focuses on the hardware and software of this efficient computerized grading package, which can be used with classes of 250 students (or larger). (Author/JN)

Biology teachers at Ithaca College have developed a course in experimental methodology and instrumentation that teaches beginning biology students the need for accuracy and precision in measurement. This course is described. (JN)

Reviews the current state of computer assisted instruction and suggests future trends in computer use in education. Discusses methods of using computers in the educational process, research on effectiveness, educational research, applications of computers, major projects, programing languages, and problems with computer assisted instruction. (JR)

Discusses the use of the Interactive Computer-based Testing (ICBT) in university-level science courses as an effective and economical educational tool. The authors discuss: (1) major objectives to ICBT; (2) advantages and pitfalls of the student use of ICBT; and (3) future prospects of ICBT. (HM)

The microcomputer used as a closed-circuit television typewriter and graphics generator is suggested as an alternative visual teaching strategy for lecture or discussions. The use of such a system in an introductory biology course for nonmajors is discussed. (JN)

Indicates that the computer will become, over the next fifteen years, a revolutionary force in learning, completely transforming current processes and ways of operating. Discusses the current situation, the possibilities of developing technology, and several models of the future of education involving computers. (HM)

Describes a two-semester course designed to meet the needs of future elementary teachers, home economists, and occupational therapists. Laboratory work includes homemade calorimeters, inclined planes, and computing. Content areas of the course include measurement, physics, chemistry, astronomy, biology, geology, and meteorology. (JN)

Discusses college and university learning resource centers, emphasizing the use of computer-based materials in the centers. Topics/issues addressed include advantages of computer use, lack of suitable materials, material evaluation, and criteria for good computer-based learning materials. (Author/JN)

Explains how self-produced software can be used to perform rapid number analysis or number-crunching duties in geology classes. Reviews programs in mineralogy and petrology and identifies areas in geology where computers can be used effectively. Discusses the advantages and benefits of integrating department-generated software into a geology…

Discusses an audio-tutorial anatomy and physiology course which was no more expensive to establish and operate than a traditional course. Topics include development of audio-tutorial materials, construction of facilities, space use, staffing, development of computer programs, and computer costs. (Author/JN)