One undergraduate chemistry laboratory at the California Institute of Technology is described, including goals of the laboratory curriculum: (1) emphasis on modern instrumental methods of analysis, separation, and characterization; (2) integration of organic/inorganic experiments; and (3) preparing students in two years to begin work in a research…

Discusses state and federal legislation concerning the handling of dangerous materials and its impact on the design of college and university buildings. Lists federal legislation affecting laboratory safety, the objectives of each act, and the influence of each act on laboratory safety. (IRT)

Presents a viewpoint regarding guidelines that should be established in publishing reports of teaching innovation in laboratory courses. (CS)

Presents the "extended discretion" approach as another dimension to conventional biology laboratory investigations. Results of a study comparing this approach to BSCS investigations indicate that tenth-grade students can handle increased discretionary demands related to their learning activities, thus encouraging responsibility and…

Suggested specifications for microscopes for various applications are given. A discussion of the ways of meeting these specifications in practice is illustrated by current models from British and foreign manufacturers. (BB)

Reviews new science equipment and products for the laboratory. Includes hand-held calculators, fiberglass fume hoods, motorized microtomy, disposable mouse cages, and electric timers. Describes 11 products total. Provides manufacturer name, address, and price. (MA)

This is a report on a study done in 1976 of safety arrangements and procedures in teaching, research, and medical establishments in the United States. The results show that the Occupational Safety & Health Act (OSHA) has not yet had much impact as far as safety in teaching and research is concerned. (BB)

A program is presented for the control of biological hazards in research centers, to ensure that all investigative activities are conducted in a manner that presents the least possible hazard to employees, students, and the community. (MB)

Describes laboratory and lecture activities in an introductory cell physiology course that encourage students to start thinking of themselves as scientists. (DKM)

Describes an approach to incorporating cooperative learning into the anatomy laboratory without diminishing the quality of instruction of the subject matter. Discusses the background, organization of groups and group tasks, evaluation of the approach, and potential disadvantages of cooperative learning. Contains 11 references. (JRH)

Compares outcomes of open-inquiry and expository versions of a chemistry laboratory experiment at the university level. Investigates whether the two versions would result in different outcomes depending upon students' attitudes towards learning. Indicates that the open-inquiry version shows the most positive outcomes, and students with low…

Describes the importance of statistical reasoning in understanding modern science and critically evaluating information. Uses spreadsheet programs and the black box approach to teach basic concepts of statistical reasoning. Presents examples of the role of statistical thinking in the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, and geology.…