A reactor to convert waste rubber tires to useful products such as CO and H2, was investigated in a university undergraduate design project. The student worked individually with mentorship from a faculty professor who aided the student with professional critique. The student was able to research the background of the field and conceive of a novel…

A low-cost tensile testing machine was built for testing polymeric films. This apparatus also allows for tear-strength and flexural tests. The experimental results, obtained from common-use materials, selected by the students, such as plastic bags, illustrate important aspects of the mechanical behavior of polymeric materials. Some of the tests…

This inexpensive, effective chemiluminescence demonstration requires minimal preparation. It is based on the oxidation of oxalyl chloride by hydrogen peroxide in the presence of an appropriate fluorescent sensitizer. The reaction mechanism is not completely understood. (BB)

This symposium focused on the question: can colleges afford to continue offering high quality laboratory instruction at the undergraduate level. (Author/BB)

Identifies the characteristics and components of a quality laboratory program for secondary science students. Suggests approaches, questions, and activities that aim to provide challenging experiences in the sciences. Also provides a listing of recommended laboratory standards and procedures. (ML)

A discrepant event is a happening contrary to our current beliefs. Discrepant events are said to be useful in clarifying concepts. This is one of the interesting features of current theories of constructivism. The story of Mpemba's ice cream is quite well known, but it is the educational aspects of the experiment that are of interest in this…

Supplies short descriptions of several computer applications in the college science classroom and laboratory, including: applications; interfacing and data collection with the TRS-80; programs for activity corrections in acid/base and precipitation titration curve calculations; computer-assisted data analysis of enzyme kinetics; and microcomputer…

This report reviews some goals for laboratory activities in contemporary science teaching, discusses an investigation that analyzed and compared laboratory activities from two major physics guides, and discusses the implications of the goals and analysis for physics teaching. Six major deficiencies in the two laboratory handbooks are identified.…

A procedure is described for providing preparations of dividing cells from root apical meristems, requiring only inexpensive equipment and minimal experimental skill, and using 8-Hydroxyquinoline and Toluidene-blue as a chromosome stain. The method has been sucessfully tested in schools and yields permanent preparations of adequate quality for…

Reports on a series of studies related to seeking a more effective role for laboratory experiences in science instruction. The study addressed the status of laboratory-based instruction in chemistry at the beginning college level. This study should be of value in the continual search to seek effective means of reforming beginning college-level…

Discusses how traditional lab exercises can be converted into investigative exercises. Describes an exercise on seed germination that has students design their own experiments based on their initial results. Involves students in the scientific process and allows them to experience the joys and disappointments of experimental work. (JRH)

Develops a simple tree-ring laboratory to demonstrate the basics of dendrochronology. Provides two upper-level laboratory exercises primarily intended to demonstrate the specific dendrochronology subdisciplines of dendroclimatology and dendroecology. Suggests using the exercises separately or in unison as part of a multidisciplinary capstone…

Court rulings have established three basic responsibilities school systems must meet in science programs: (1) inform students about the hazards they might encounter in a science class; (2) provide a safe learning environment and properly maintained equipment; and (3) ensure adequate supervision. Outlines a four-point school safety plan. (MLF)

The work done in a chemistry laboratory is compared to cooking, as both processes use books for reference. It is felt that cooking and chemistry are complex processes and are creative endeavors that require skills beyond those developed by merely following the directions.

The enzyme orotidine-5'-monophosphate decarboxylase is an attractive choice for the central theme of an integrated, research-based biochemistry laboratory course. A series of laboratory exercises common to most instructional laboratories, including enzyme assays, protein purification, enzymatic characterization, elementary kinetics, and…