Ripple Effects Mapping (REM) is a qualitative data analysis approach that combines mind mapping with inductive analysis to condense data obtained from group interviews. One benefit of REM is the ability to identify unintended outcomes, or "ripples," of the intervention of interest. Ripples are visually represented by a mind map created…

This paper explores the design and initial implementation of a political science capstone. The capstone was organized around the theme of critical thinking. The course made the case to students that critical thinking was important and that political science provides uniquely valuable training for good critical thinking by teaching students methods…

Believes that the variety and availability of insects offers great opportunity for elementary school children to engage in exciting investigations that help in developing learning skills as well as independent creative thinking. Suggests teaching strategies and investigation ideas. (RB)

A primary objective of the utilization of historical research in teaching American History is to develop the students' ability to locate needed information when he wants it and in relation to the issue that has motivated the search. (Author)

Present methods of high school and college instruction in history, namely, the instructor centered approaches, have made the study of history irrelevant for many students, and hence objectives for teaching history are seldom realized. Even good lectures, and most discussion classes, result in the student acting as a passive observer, never…

Describes objectives, content, and teaching procedures of an introductory college-level urban geography course. Lectures, student papers, and role playing are designed to help students learn about central place theory, space economy, land use, and social geography. (Author/AV)

Students in Economics 519 at Purdue University have been guided to seeing economics in things--in their experiences, in their readings, and in their conversations--and to apply economic analysis appropriately in considering them. This course outline illustrates one technique employed which reaches the objectives of effective economics education,…

In a course titled Scientific Process, we introduce undergraduates to the philosophy and practice of science and initiate them into a 2-year undergraduate research track. Engaging exercises and discussions help students understand the scientific process and ultimately produce a research proposal in grant application format. Students defend their…

Globalization and domestic competition are forcing businesses to rethink the human resources utilization process, and one method for considering again this challenge is creating a team culture. One key to this process for human resources development is the understanding of how to create the most successful teams. The use of the Myers-Briggs Type…

Describes techniques for clarifying goals, improving organization, and evaluating students in research courses that are typically unstructured. Includes methods for assisting students in designing experiments, creating evaluation tools, and monitoring student progress throughout the course. These simple methods are appropriate for courses with an…

Outlines a laboratory group program for engaging large numbers of undergraduate psychology students in faculty research at small liberal arts colleges with limited research resources. Participating in the group enhances the students' interest in and understanding of research and improves their chances of being accepted into a graduate program.…

During their first quarter, all nonremedial liberal arts students at LaGuardia Community College take an introductory cluster of four courses. These "freedom clusters" use a single body of material and a common analytical method and have, as their fixed elements, courses in philosophy, English composition, and the research paper. Course…

This final report is an assessment of an experimental class designed to determine whether students, grades nine through twelve with diverse backgrounds, could do field research on community problems. The course description and outline of the course define goals and methods of meeting these goals. Samples of materials used are included in the text…

Describes a redefined introductory course on the principles of sociology based on seven principles of good teaching. Includes transforming the learner from passive to active, teaching the process of inquiry, and helping students realize why they are learning. Urges a student-centered approach to learning with the instructor as a participant…

"American Visions" is a freshman-level survey course offered by the Department of History as part of Butler University's core curriculum. The course is built around three primary contextual considerations: high culture, popular culture, and community culture. The high culture approach is designed to introduce students to major systems of thought…