Engineering curricula should be dynamic with a goal of constant improvement and refinement. Unfortunately, this is often not the case; courses are developed, altered, and expanded in a piecemeal manner. Namely, as time progresses many programmes end up with courses that are developed and not a developed curriculum. To remedy this shortcoming…

This paper provides instructions for linking conceptual understandings using the Connections Matrix. The Connections Matrix and the process of connecting the curriculum works equally well with state-level learning objectives or outcomes. The intent of this process is to help educators see the overlap and connections between what teachers say they…

Uses a matrix to identify conceptual gaps in a bibliographic instruction program at an academic library and discusses a curriculum design model that includes objectives in the affective and sensorimotor domains as well as cognitive instruction. Application of the model to a computer-assisted bibliographic instruction project is described. (10…

Presents five recommendations of the Linear Algebra Curriculum Study Group: (1) The syllabus must respond to the client disciplines; (2) The first course should be matrix oriented; (3) Faculty should consider the needs and interests of students; (4) Faculty should use technology; and (5) At least one follow-up course should be required. Provides a…

The development of a curriculum review mechanism, the Curriculum Interaction Model (CIM) and how it is being used for academic planning and management purposes at two distinctly different institutions, the State University College of New York at Buffalo and Barnard College of Columbia University, is described. The CIM is a quantitative academic…

Describes the use of a matrix process to establish connections between mathematics and science using national standards. The matrix can be established as a regular part of the planning process and can help guide educators to implement effective activities which embed the standards and connections within the curriculum rather than as supplemental…

Explains how a spreadsheet can be an effective modeling and simulation tool for studying electrical circuits. Highlights include Kirchoff's rules and matrices algebra; a pilot experiment with preservice teacher education students in a physics class; the teacher's role; student attitudes; curricular aspects; and the effectiveness of the spreadsheet…

Following an overview of various theories of learning and of philosophies of education, this paper explores how to develop a culture-critical geography curriculum at any grade level. A culture-critical philosophy of education attaches particular importance to the dialogue between teacher and pupil and aims toward broadening and deepening the…

Conceptual problems hinder the development of computer-assisted art instruction. Presented is a framework to guide the organization of instruction and to facilitate the selection of computer strategies appropriate to particular art learning situations. Various types of computer-assisted instruction are presented within a continuum of teaching…

Within a setting of dynamic rather than static knowledge, the academic structuring of disciplines begins to lose meaning. Interdisciplinary courses are one result of this perception of knowledge. A polydisciplinary approach, however, would be a more accurate construct of reality. Given the following four aspects of a polydisciplinary approach to…

Prepared by the National Middle School Association (NMSA) and approved by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), this handbook presents curriculum guidelines and worksheets for undergraduate and graduate teacher preparation programs focusing on grades 5 through 9. Specifically, the guidelines are designed to assist in…

Two recent trends in education--increased technology and accountability--are driving efforts to define technology competencies and standards for teachers. The first lists of competencies from these efforts are just now being completed. While some of these competencies are linked to teacher certification and re-certification, others are developed…