In general, laboratory experiments focus on traditional chemical disciplines. While this approach allows students the ability to learn and explore fundamental concepts in a specific area, it does not always encourage students to explore interdisciplinary science. Often little transfer of knowledge from one area to another is observed, as students…

Describes the construction of a flexible coupled-cavity interferometer for student use. A helium-neon laser and phonograph turntable are the main components. Lists activities which may be performed with the apparatus. (Author/CP)

Describes a method of organizing and handling senior undergraduate thesis projects. Discusses the benefits and disadvantages of conducting them. (YP)

Describes an experimental project on boomerangs designed for an undergraduate course in classical mechanics. The students designed and made their own boomerangs, devised their own procedures, and carried out suitable measurements. Presents some of their data and a simple analysis for the two-bladed boomerang. (Author/MLH)

Describes a polytechnical club" where college students must manually make laboratory equipment for experiments. Also introduces an evaluation procedure based on the student's intelligence and ability to work with others. (DS)

Described is a simple demonstration of fermentation. The materials needed, the basic experimental set-up, and various projects are outlined. Included are a diagram of an apparatus for measuring carbon dioxide production and a table showing typical results of the effect of pH on fermentation. (RT)

Provides abstracts and materials requirements for 20 chromatography projects. Experiments range in complexity; some require synthesis steps, apparatus construction, or special preparation techniques. (MLH)

Presents an experimental design for feeding experiments requiring minimal equipment, small numbers of animals, and limited expenses. These projects provide insights into animal nutrition, food selection, animal behavior and animal husbandry. (Author/GS)

An experiment is described in which undergraduate students can optimize the relative yield of sec-butylbenzene by varying molar ratio and temperature. (Author/SA)

Describes an exercise in which students convert lithostratigraphic columns into chronostratigraphic columns, infer paleolatitude using paleomagnetic data, interpret depositional environments, determine the timing of deformation and terrane collision, construct models, and synthesize the results into a geologic history. Background data, procedures,…

Describes problems with teaching embryology in the traditional manner. Presents a new approach where students prepare presentations, questions, and discussion topics. During laboratory periods, students conducted their own long-term research projects. (PR)

Describes a program at Drew University, in which retired scientists receive offices, research space, and equipment in exchange for directing the research of advanced undergraduates. (PR)