Summarizes some of the approaches to help personalize instruction and create a motivational learning environment in introductory biology courses. Suggestions for motivation include making the content meaningful, making yourself available, demonstrating that you care about students, creating student-oriented course features, and generating…

Explains one instructional technique designed to achieve a synergism between self-motivation, good management of time, and goal orientation for the organic chemistry student. (GS)

Explains procedures, observations, and directions for demonstrating properties of butane using reclosable plastic storage bags. States that the demonstration provides for discussion of topics such as the liquefaction of gases, heat of vaporization and refrigeration techniques, and thermodynamics. (RT)

Describes a demonstration that shows the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll. Uses an overhead projector, a solution of chlorophyll, and a diffraction grating. (RT)

Explains an interdisciplinary approach to biology and writing which increases students' mastery of vocabulary, scientific concepts, creativity, and expression. Describes modifications of the clustering technique used to summarize lectures, integrate reading and understand textbook material. (RT)

Describes the use of "contracting" as a method to remind students of the importance of independent investigations. The contract is an agreement for learning between the student and professor. (PR)

Finding ways to demonstrate microscopic phenomena and contending with life science students' lack of interest in physical principles are two problems in laboratory courses. Describes a clinical laboratory test for parasite infection that can be used to effectively solve both of them. (RT)

Describes a demonstration which allows students to witness a type of continuous spectrum and an absorption spectrum. Provides a diagram and explanation for the construction of an absorption box. (RT)

Presents information on student interest, teaching problems, and learning outcomes regarding the use of cadavers as a teaching tool. Provides a list of Illinois Community Colleges using cadavers and a student questionnaire. (RT)

Explains a scheme for grading student performance which stresses skills, technique, decision making, and notebook entries. Describes grading system and potential pitfalls. (RT)

Describes an interdisciplinary approach to science learning in settings usually associated with the humanities or social sciences. Explains the program, its rewards and results, the self and identity seminar, why the program works, and ways of adapting the program. (RT)

Describes an academic-based summer program designed to prepare students for high school chemistry. Discusses motivational techniques, feedback, drills, competitions, and tutoring sessions. States that increased enrollment in chemistry, student achievement on post-program test, and the number of Blacks interested and succeeding in the sciences are…

Examines the following five teaching techniques that have strong motivational value: (1) study groups, (2) group projects, (3) sharing information, (4) computer-assisted instruction, and (5) field trips. (PR)