Develops a simple tree-ring laboratory to demonstrate the basics of dendrochronology. Provides two upper-level laboratory exercises primarily intended to demonstrate the specific dendrochronology subdisciplines of dendroclimatology and dendroecology. Suggests using the exercises separately or in unison as part of a multidisciplinary capstone…

Presents lab exercises in which students use the microscope to study cells. Describes these activities as allowing students to work independently and become more proficient at microscope use. Students also gain a deeper understanding of the more invisible world of science. (Author/KHR)

Described is a project designed to determine the kinds and types of science laboratories located in and around Yolo County, California. Summarized are some of the sites visited by the investigator and some of the impressions of those facilities. (CW)

Court rulings have established three basic responsibilities school systems must meet in science programs: (1) inform students about the hazards they might encounter in a science class; (2) provide a safe learning environment and properly maintained equipment; and (3) ensure adequate supervision. Outlines a four-point school safety plan. (MLF)

Describes the development of the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory (SLEI) instrument for assessing perceptions of the psychosocial environment in science laboratory classrooms, and reports validation information for samples of senior high school students from six different countries. The SLEI assesses five dimensions of the actual and…

Presents arguments against lab dissection in the science classroom. Author discusses adult negative memories associated with earlier school dissections. Asserts that, for the early adolescent, dissection may be mingled with messages pertaining to sex, excretion, identity, and privacy. Suggests that dissection arouses a feeling of "defilement": a…

Authors describe a biology course for nonmajors that appealed to student interests while retaining content integrity. The other philosophical foundations of the course were to increase student involvement and to conduct at least half of the laboratory aspect of the course at field-based locations. Details of transportation considerations,…

Describes the study of sandy beach zonations as a seashore activity for either high school or lower-level college courses in biology, ecology, or marine biology. Students first draw a profile of a beach scene and then collect specimens from the zones of the shore. In a laboratory, students identify their specimens and relate them to the beach…

Reports study of college biology laboratory course where 604 students were placed in pairs based on their scientific reasoning ability (intuitive, transitional, reflective). Results indicate no significant difference between type of partner and laboratory score or posttest reasoning score. Survey results indicate reflective partner was viewed as…

Observes that there is as yet no comprehensive history of the Post-World War II "multiversity." Examines the development of Stanford University's Microwave Laboratory. Suggests a framework for the multiversity that includes large, well-funded laboratories, a department with weak central authority, and an emphasis on research over…

Describes an assignment and the results of having elementary school students design their own interesting and exciting science classroom environment. (PR)

Examines the development of a science center at a college, including the transformation of the physical facility and curricular changes. Provides a sketch of the facility and details about staffing the center. (DDR)

Uses a Vygotskian framework to examine students' (n=26) use of tools in a ninth-grade physical science classroom during a unit on electric circuits. Indicates that conceptual progress may be hindered by students' need to first understand the tools in terms of everyday application. Advocates selection of laboratory tools and activities that match…

Relays one school science technician's experiences in taking a course designed to improve and standardize technician credentials in the United Kingdom. (WRM)

Discusses the importance of feasibility studies when renovating a university science facility. Outlines how to establish a team, set goals, and develop the program. Describes some of the key issues in the process, such as carefully analyzing the existing space, and offers some considerations regarding costs. (RJM)