This study was designed to investigate and compare the effects of two laboratory approaches in biology upon prospective elementary teachers in their understanding of the social aspects of science, achievement in selected biological principles, understanding of science as process, and ability in critical thinking. The two approaches compared were…

A consumer science course at Rumford (Maine) Junior High School uses resources and facilities of the home economics and science departments to take low-ability students through a variety of practical learning experiences combining chemistry, biology, and home economics. Rotation of classrooms and teachers helps to keep the students interested. (MF)

Describes four science laboratory, consumer oriented activities including: milk, fireproofing clothing, acetic acid, and paints. (SL)

Criticizes the way organic chemistry teaching laboratory experiments are approached from the viewpoint of physical chemistry. Compares these experiments to cooking. Stresses that what matters is not the practice of the finger skills of organic chemistry but practice in the style of thinking of organic chemists. (CW)

Described are the Howard Hughes Medical Institute programs for providing funds to assist science education. One program is designed to assist private liberal arts colleges that are not affiliated with a graduate school. Other programs have been established to provide support for postdoctoral research and laboratories. (RH)

Eighth grade physical science students studied graphing with a microcomputer as the lab partner in a microcomputer based laboratory. Graph templates were used to solve problems based on previous learning. It was concluded that the Computer as Lab Partner curriculum was effective in teaching graphing concepts. (GDC)

Describes a program in which senior engineering students are given the opportunity to design, make, and test apparatus intended for an upper-level teaching laboratory. Discusses such projects as a vapor compressor test stand with refrigerant mass flow measurement, a double-walled concentric annular heat pipe, and a vacuum filling station. (TW)

Indicates that the most dangerous laboratory hazards are the least dramatic ones and that hazardous chemicals are often used in laboratories without proper precautions. Selected sources of information essential for secondary schools and recommendations for safe practices and chemical use statistics from a study of Ohio high schools are given. (DH)

Secondary physics students were interviewed to determine their expectations/actions in laboratory work. Results indicate preference for laboratory activities because such exercises help students remember, are less confusing, and more concrete. Use of the laboratory as an introduction to a concept, followed by discussion, was a key component to…

Describes a general purpose microcomputer-based system designed to support small-scale experimentation in the physical sciences in student laboratories. System requirements, teacher reactions, and educational implications are discussed; design criteria are established; and examples are given of the system's application to some simple experiments.…

Presents a synthesis for the findings and recommendations of the White House Science Council on the status of the nation's universities. The report urges that federal support to universities be increased and that funds for facility improvement be established. New initiatives in providing scholarships for bright undergraduates is also advocated.…

Discusses the use of microcomputers in science education: (1) computer-assisted instruction; (2) testing; (3) data processing; (4) simulation; (5) teacher assistance; and (6) data collection. Gives educational applications of microcomputer-based laboratories, pointing out advantages and disadvantages. Outlines current drawbacks and makes…

Using traditional building materials and a fast-track recipe, the architects, acting as construction manager, completed the Graduate Chemistry Laboratory at Stony Brook, New York, two full years ahead of schedule. (Author/MF)

The threat of instrument obsolescence and tight federal budgets have conspired to threaten the existence of research analytical laboratories. Despite these and other handicaps most existing laboratories expect to keep operating in support of basic research, though there may be serious penalties in the future unless funds are forthcoming. (Author)

A 1.5-MeV High Voltage Electron Microscope has been installed at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory which will help materials scientists and biologists study samples in more true-to-life situations. A 1-MeV Atomic Resolution Microscope will be installed at the same location in two years which will allow scientists to distinguish atoms. (DS)