Creating critical mass has become a cornerstorne of science policy on both national and transnational levels. It suggests that once a certain size is reached, exponential growth or accelerated change will occur. In reconstructing theories, policies and practices associated with critical mass, the paper traces the image of critical mass as a size…

Methods for increasing minority representation in medicine and the related health professions are discussed in this paper. The programs sponsored by the Macy Foundation are described: post-baccalaureate premedical fellowship programs, regional conferences, medical school programs, and black college programs. The need for high school directed…

The Standard Oil Company of Ohio (SOHIO) will underwrite the Science Resources for the Schools (SRS) program which is aimed at U.S. junior high schools. The $1.67 million project will provide schools with science resources to help them upgrade their science education capabilities. Highlights of the program are provided. (Author/JN)

In support of its academic programs in the sciences, the University of Texas has recruited noted scientists to its campuses (with substantial salaries and benefits). This support for the sciences includes funds for new equipment and programs. (Author/JN)

Discussed is the development of studies based on the ethical and value aspects of the interactions between science, technology, and society. Described are the characteristics of these studies and the proposals funded by the Ethics and Values Studies at the National Science Foundation. (KR)

A cooperative science teacher development program between Temple University and the Republic of China is described. The history of educational practices in China, the preparation of teachers in China, the exchange program, the necessary funding, and the mutual exchange of ideas are topics of discussion. (KR)

Federal civilian agency support for engineering education in 1980 is described. The support is placed in categories, current concerns about the supply of engineers and conditions of engineering schools are related to the support, and the changes made by the fiscal year 1982 budget are identified. It was found that 38 programs in 11 federal…

Reviews the recent history of the National Science Foundation's funding of engineering research and the Engineering Research Center program. Discusses the selection, review and evaluation of centers. Criticizes the systems approach to engineering. Highlights the importance of engineering practice and the opportunities for research. (CW)

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is currently putting an intense focus on national strength in the physical sciences to cope with challenges of tomorrow's high technology future. Includes comments by NSF director (Edward Knapp) on NSF role/operation, science education, and other areas. Also includes highlights of NSF accomplishments under…

Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCOR), a National Science Foundation-funded program is in the third year of its five-year grants to scientists in five states. Program objectives, financial support (including cost-sharing by states), state programs resulting from EPSCOR, and EPSCOR achievements are discussed. (JN)

A description is given of the various programs of adult education provided and supported by the Federal Republic of Germany for the benefit of the developing nations. (CK)

Universities and industry are forging new relationships to support academic research and industrial research and development, including the establishment of university/cooperative research centers. Discusses various cooperative projects at these research centers. Includes a list of representative R&D centers in biotechnology, building…

Discusses technological advancement in Japan (including financial tools) and America's response to meet the Japanese high-technology challenge. This response includes university programs to learn about Japan/Japanese, cooperative agreements with Japanese universities, and programs to send U.S. graduate students to work in Japanese companies. (JN)

A fund established by the will of Clare Boothe Luce is announced. The 14 university beneficiaries are listed. Other programs which help to promote the participation of women in science and engineering are discussed. (CW)

National Science Foundation support for instructional innovation in design curriculum is discussed. Programs that illustrate diverse approaches to teaching design are described. A list of programs given engineering curriculum development awards in 1988 and 1989 is provided. (CW)