Describes physics experiments (including speed, acceleration, and acceleration due to gravity) in which students write programs to obtain and manipulate experimental data using the Atari microcomputer game port. The approach emphasizes the essential physics of the experiments while affording students useful experience of automatic data collection.…

Telephone equipment and television monitors allow university faculty to provide high-quality physics courses for secondary students. Equipment, technology, and course format for this remote site instructional program are discussed. Results indicate differences in small versus large school, but participants believe the project offers a solution for…

In guided design, students are led through the process of solving open-ended problems in "slow motion." Steps in the decision making involved in and examples of guided design projects in a physical science course are outlined and discussed. Comments on student evaluation of the course are included. (JN)

Describes an interdisciplinary, college-level course on the chemical and physiological properties of selected drugs and medications. The course, which could be adapted for secondary school use, assumes no prior chemical or biological knowledge. Source materials, films used, credit/grading policies, instructional strategies, and course outline are…

Describes an elective, interdisciplinary course designed to allow students to examine relationships between science and the humanities and to foster scientific literacy and appreciation for the scientific enterprise. (SK)

A course on the evolvement of life was developed using a thematic, problem-oriented approach rather than the traditional, discipline-oriented approach. Course content, format, and evaluation are discussed. Textbooks and related materials used in the course are also discussed. (Author/JN)

Describes a topics course offered at the University of New Mexico entitled "Lasers in Chemistry," which is designed for beginning graduate students and advanced undergraduates in all areas of chemistry. (CS)

Reports on an island ecology course offered by Eastern Connecticut State College providing opportunities for students to study the ecology and natural history of organisms found in a variety of subtropical habitats in Bermuda. Explains student selection criteria, trip preparation, evaluation criteria, daily programs, and habitats studied on the…

Describes a year 12 preemployment science course which includes (1) the study of human physiology; (2) construction, maintenance, and repair of science materials; and (3) teaching science to year three and four students at a local primary school. (DS)

Described is a program in applied chemistry within a classical chemistry department of a university located in a Third World country. The course was designed to provide student with knowledge and skills used by chemists in Jamaican industry. Summer employment is required as part of the program. (DS)

Reviews changing high school science curricula in South Africa, outlining two recent movements: aiming syllabi at the 85% of students who do not graduate in the sciences, and teaching basic knowledge and skills rather than specific and narrow job skills that easily become obsolete. Suggests that closer cooperation between curriculum planners,…

Describes a sea-water analysis project that introduces qualitative and quantitative analysis methods and laboratory methods such as gravimetric analysis, potentiometric titration, ion-selective electrodes, and the use of calibration curves. Uses a problem-based cooperative teaching approach. (Contains 24 references.) (YDS)

Described is a course designed to teach the intellectual methods of science while also fostering the development of mature, critical, and skeptical thinking students. Discussed are the course syllabus, teaching philosophy and techniques, and observed results. (CW)

Describes a student programing project using microcomputers in an engineering design course. Provides some instructional procedures and student feedback from the project. (YP)

Describes a Principles of Technology course as an innovative approach to teaching physics that does away will the hype and stigma that frightens off many potential students. (PR)