Most introductory courses in environmental science are large, lecture-style general education classes. North Carolina State University's ES 100 is no exception, enrolling between 200 and 300 students and holding class meetings in the campus cinema. A key underlying learning objective, however, is to teach students that science is the pathway to…

The authors sought to better approximate the practice of "real" science in our classrooms by having students study a newly built storm-water remediation wetland on campus. The wetland was meant to gather and clean storm water running off of student parking lots--thus students had ownership in the problem and potential solution. Participating…

Describes the Mock Experiment which introduces both science and non-science majors to the scientific method, literature, and journal articles. Explains guidelines, experiment application, and manuscript evaluation. (YDS)

Describes how conducting in-class symposia in which students present primary research articles can provide a window into the process of scientific research and communication; broaden student exposure to research; and improve their reading, writing, and oral presentation skills. The key to the success of this symposium format is allowing students…

Discusses variables and parameters involved in scientific research to set up guidelines for research workers. Indicates that flexibility, perseverance, and self-awareness are necessary traits for researchers to function in a universe of continuous change. (CC)

Stereology is the study of three-dimensional objects through the interpretation of two-dimensional images. Stereological techniques used in introductory botany to quantitatively examine changes in leaf anatomy in response to different environments are discussed. (JN)