Suggests ways that colleges can improve the problem-solving skills of chemistry majors and acquaint them with the realities of industrial research. Describes two projects in which undergraduate chemistry majors performed research and development work for a local chemical company. (TW)

Describes an experiment in which stretching a rubber band can be used to compare the statistical theory of rubber elasticity with its continuum mechanics counterpart. Employs the use of the equation of the state of rubber elasticity and the Mooney-Rivlin equation. (TW)

Proposes a two-stage experimental approach that combines preparative chemistry and polymer characterization. Describes the simple organic synthesis of a plasticizer, the dioctylphthalate, and its direct use in the preparation of a styrene/divinylbenzene network copolymer. Discusses how to evaluate the physical properties of the resulting plastic.…

Describes a study of the use of experiential learning coupled with social change agentry among community college students. Compares the participation, attendance, learning retention, satisfaction, and effectiveness of university undergraduates and two-year college students involved in behavioral and child advocacy skills training and case work…

Relates the experiences of individuals who have gone from the field of outdoor experiential education to the corporate world. Points out skills that are transferable from experiential education to business and lists eight guidelines for anyone concerned about personal career growth. (JHZ)

Argues that structured reading programs, workbook pages, and drills do not alone provide an adequate basis for beginning reading instruction and suggests that experiences, knowledge, and other environmental factors ensure success in reading. (HOD)

Describes a study designed to determine whether positive personal reinforcements used by instructors can alter college students' attitudes about classroom behavior norms of the experiential learning method. Positive feedback given to rebellious students produced positive results, but students who received no feedback reacted negatively to the…

Results of a survey of new and experienced part-time faculty at Britain's Open University concerning their attitudes toward learning teaching skills on the job give insights into the teachers' self-confidence and attitudes about their work. (MSE)

Provides a descriptive listing of museums and science exhibits that are essentially participatory and playful in nature for young children. Offerings in the areas of natural history, museums, science and technology centers and specifically children's museums are outlined. Educational benefits are discussed. (ML)

Describes the pioneering work in England of Susan and Nathan Isaacs in child development and educational psychology and argues that their work provides a remarkably contemporary analysis of the origin and function of human language. (Author/RDN)

Discusses the professional portfolio as (1) evidence of knowledge and skills gained through prior learning and experience; (2) a placement tool for faculty, and (3) useful in a student's program planning. Describes the concept and development of the portfolio's narrative and documentation sections. Also rates the portfolio's advantages and…

With caseloads often exceeding 500 students, counselors cannot afford to spend countless hours on traditional approaches to individual problems. Solution-Focused Brief Counseling (SFBC) offers counselors an effective approach that leads to rapid, observable change in students. This guidebook combines step-by-step instructions with vivid case…

This is the second of four electronic newsletters being published this year by the U. S. Department of Education, Character Education and Civic Engagement Technical Assistance Center (CETAC). The newsletters are intended to provide the latest developments in character education and civic engagement, and this issue focuses on student involvement in…

This is a qualitative community college landscape study using historical details and temporal qualities to point out the challenges and dilemmas of applying curriculum to real-world experience. The author uses the concreteness of the Canadian community college context and her own experience there to talk about student/teacher relationships,…

Play for Peace (PFP) is an international initiative bringing together children, youth, and organizations from communities in conflict, using cooperative play to create compassion and peace between cultures that have a history of conflict. A 2-year study examined PFP's history and methodology and conducted a program assessment. Data were gathered…