An interactive computer/videodisc learning approach to the conventional laboratory approach for learning biology concepts and science process skills were compared. The two approaches appear equivalent when evaluated by traditional learning outcomes, but the interactive videodisc strategy was significantly more time efficient than a traditional…

Demonstrations in which glyoxal may be substituted for formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, are presented. An acid-base clock reaction and a copper mirror on the inside of a test tube are described. Directions for the demonstrations and safety precautions are included. (KR)

Discusses the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA's) Laboratory Safety Standards as the major driving force in establishing and maintaining a safe working environment for teachers and students. (Author)

Presents classroom inquiry-based investigations to investigate wound healing in plant tissues and cells. Students create their own research problems and the investigations can be related to the National Science Standards. (SAH)

The purpose of this study was to explore how science teachers' epistemological beliefs and teaching goals are related to their use of lab activities. Research questions include: (1) What are the teachers' epistemological beliefs pertaining to lab activities? (2) Why do the science teachers use lab activities? (3) How are the teachers'…

This laboratory exercise encourages upper level biochemistry students to build and expand upon previously developed laboratory skills and knowledge as they conduct a comparison of two methods of plasmid preparation based upon cost, quality of product, production time, and environmental impact. Besides creating an environment that mimics a more…

The trend toward inquiry-based learning is providing today's students with a more enriching education. When implementing inquiry it is important to recognize the great number of safety concerns that accompany this paradigm shift. Fortunately, with some consideration, teachers can shape students' laboratory experiments into safe and valuable…

This paper presents an Internet-based open approach to laboratory instruction. In this article, the author talks about an open laboratory approach using a multi-user multi-device remote facility. This approach involves both the direct contact with the computer-controlled laboratory setup of interest with the students present in the laboratory…

Describes science-related competitive events in which 10th and 11th grade students participated. The organization and operation of the olympiad is detailed. (CP)

Topics in biology A-level projects are briefly described. (CP)

Studies the effects of computer-managed self-paced (CMSP) and teacher-managed group-paced (TMGP) laboratory instruction on the attitudes toward science of ninth-grade students. All students were enrolled in an introduction to chemistry and physics course. Posttests revealed that groups did not differ significantly on achievement measures but the…

Describes use of computer simulation which generates bird songs so that students can analyze song motifs and sequences as an introduction to descriptive analysis of behavior in an animal behavior course. Advantages of the simulation are discussed together with computer hardware/software needed and data presentation, analysis, and generation…

Contends that demonstration lecturing is a valuable science teaching approach. Highlights the benefits of this technique and identifies sources of information for teachers. Provides a listing of popular science lectures suitable for chemistry classes. Describes in detail the "Major of Chemistry" demonstration. (ML)

Describes a chemistry experiment appropriate for the day before Christmas vacation. Students prepare candy canes by following a recipe written in chemical terms. This illustrates that food is composed of chemicals and that the processes involved in cooking are chemical and physical changes. (JR)